The media is a powerful tool that can foster peace and stability or destabilize a nation. In Liberia, the media has a vital role to play in keeping the country’s peace and stability. However, it cannot afford to be used as a political weapon against the interests of the country and its citizens. Media professionals are expected to demonstrate a high degree of ethics in the use of air space.
Liberia is a country that went through a long period of civil war, which lasted more than a decade. The civil war caused a great deal of destruction and loss of life, and it took the involvement of the international community to bring peace to the country. The media played a critical role during the civil war, as they were used to spread hateful messages and incite violence. The media was used as a political weapon by different factions in order to promote their interests. As a result, the country was immersed in chaos and instability.
Currently, Liberia is a peaceful country, and the media has a crucial role to play in sustaining this peace. The media should play the role of a watchdog and hold leaders accountable. It should also promote national unity and cohesion, highlighting the government’s achievements and the positive contributions of citizens. The media should also offer a platform for the free expression of ideas and opinions, as it is a basic human right.
But the media should not let themselves be used as a political weapon against the interests of the country and its citizens. Media professionals should demonstrate a high level of ethical conduct when using the airspace. They should exercise impartiality and objectivity in their reports and avoid being influenced by political interests. They should also refrain from propagating hate messages and incitement of violence, which can destabilize the country.
In conclusion, the media has a crucial role to play in keeping Liberia peaceful and stable. It should be a watchdog to hold people in power accountable for their actions. It should also promote national unity and cohesion by showcasing the accomplishments of government and the positive contributions of citizens. However, the media should not let themselves be used as a political weapon against the interests of the country and its people. Media professionals must be highly ethical when using the airspace. In this way, the media can contribute to the development of Liberia and the welfare of its citizens.
Written By: Dakpannah U-Thant Nicholas Smith, a Liberian journalist.
