Front cover of Rwanda Edition, conflict Sensitive Journalism Handbook, December 2008.

The role of vernacular media in the Rwanda genocide during the 1990es remains a class example of hate media to this day. In the shadows of history, media in Rwanda continue to work in a fragile environment. This has called IMS to produce a special edition for Rwandan media of the handbook in conflict sensitive journalism

The legacy of Radio-Télévision Libres des Milles Collines (RTLM) in Rwanda and the use of the media as a weapon during the 1994 genocide have been well documented. While this legacy continues to haunt the country and its media today, it also serves as a potent illustration and reminder of the power the media wield.

Today, media in Rwanda continue to work in a region where conflict unfortunately continues to be all too common. In this environment it is incumbent on all media practitioners, therefore, to be aware of the conflict-escalating tendencies that the media can have and to recognize that the solution is not self-censorship. Rather to learn techniques of solid fact-based, balanced reporting - something which is particularly important in conflict and post-conflict environments. 

During joint missions to Rwanda and the Great Lakes region in Africa, IMS together with UNESCO, has found a need for providing tools to may enable media to cover conflict and conflict-stressed areas with confidence and knowing how to avoid the pitfalls of becoming a tool in the conflicting partners' hands.

This handbook is part of IMS and UNESCO's response to the needs expressed during consultations with local partners. It is a practical guide and tool for journalists covering conflicts whereever they occur.

The report may be downloaded from this site free of charge.