NCJ Number
158496
Journal
Studies in Conflict and Terrorism Volume: 18 Issue: 3 Dated: (July- September 1995) Pages: 203-231
Date Published
1995
Length
29 pages
Annotation
The mass media in Northern Ireland should recognize their role in the struggle against terrorism and handle their coverage of terrorist incidents and issues in recognition of this role.
Abstract
Significant religious, political, and social changes are necessary if northern Ireland is ever to have a peaceful existence. The government, the authorities, the public, and the media are all important in the efforts to address terrorism. Terrorist organizations regard publicity as essential for propaganda purposes. The aims and objectives that terrorists depend on achieving by manipulation of the media are almost as important as the actual violence these criminals commit. Although the media face a difficult situation, they must uphold their responsibilities. If the government decides to ban terrorists and their representatives from television and radio, the media should respect and abide by that decision. The only situation they should question is any government attempt to censor the facts. Media headlines should state facts without sensationalizing them; reports should contain objective descriptions of events. They should recognize that it is wholly possible to report the troubles of Northern Ireland without showing live or even recorded violence on national or local news bulletins. They should not allow terrorists of any viewpoint to have access to radio or television to analyze the conflict or justify their actions. Overall, the media have acted reasonably competently in their coverage of terrorism, but must remain on guard against terrorist propaganda. 67 reference notes (Author summary modified)