Analyzing the Role of Media Causing Conflict in the Conflict-affected Areas, A Case Study of the Northwest Province of Pakistan

Abstract

This research study deals with the role of media in provoking sectarian violence. Using Random sampling techniques, a sample size of 279 respondents was selected in the district of Hangu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Besides sample frequency distribution, chi-square statistics were used to determine the association between independent and dependent variables. The majority of respondents, 262(93.9%), stated that peace is in high demand for people in the area. Similarly, 240 (86.0%) of the respondents argued that without peace, cooperation, and coordination among people is difficult to prevail. Likewise, most respondents, 182 (65.2%), believed that people start fighting over minor issues. Furthermore, at the bivariate level, media can destroy peace at any time (p= .031) was found to be significant with peace in the area. The media has changed the individual mind, and its thoughts (p=.003) were highly substantial with peace in the region. Social Media plays an essential role in peacemaking (p=.000) had a highly significant association with peace in the area. The study concluded that media have a tremendous influence on the stability in the region. It can cultivate hatred between Shia and Sunni on either side, which generates endless conflict between the two sects. The study recommends that the government and concerned authorities confine the broadcasting of media channels and print media activities on factless and sensitive issues which cause the escalation of sectarian conflict between Shia and Sunni in Pakistan. Coordination and cooperation among rival groups can further strengthen the peace process in the area.