THE ROLE OF MASS MEDIA IN ADVOCATING FOR THE HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN SOUTH SUDAN
In a country with a low level of political maturity, differences in political interests and articulation become prone to conflict. Society is not yet accustomed to appreciating differences and diversity of political views and, conversely, the level of tolerance is still very low, which occasionally triggers various conflicts in society. However, most conflict events are newsworthy, such as physical conflicts having news value because there are usually losses and victims. One of them is conflict between the government of a country and one of the community groups within that country or conflict between community groups, which is often referred to as civil war. One of the direct impacts of civil war that occurs in a country is a humanitarian crisis.
A humanitarian crisis is a condition where humans do not have the right to live, the right to feel safe, or the right to justice and prosperity. The African continent is an area that is prone to conflict, specifically internal conflict in the form of civil war. Various conflicts occur on this continent, giving rise to various social problems in each country, such as poverty, unemployment, hunger, violations of human rights, the death of millions of people every year, which then becomes a humanitarian crisis.
The civil war that occurred in South Sudan was an inter-ethnic civil war. It is known that the start of the war occurred when South Sudan was not yet independent and was still part of Sudan. The inter-ethnic civil war was created when Sudan was still one country, starting from the government’s discriminatory actions against ethnic Africans in Sudan. South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, has experienced conflict and humanitarian crises since gaining independence in 2011. Armed conflict, political instability and natural disasters such as drought and floods have caused enormous suffering for its population. According to the UN, about 7.5 million people, or about two-thirds of the population, need humanitarian assistance.
In this context, mass media plays a very important role. As the main information channel, mass media has the ability to influence public opinion and shape perceptions about the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. Through news coverage, documentaries and articles, mass media can show the harsh reality of this crisis to the world, inspire empathy and solidarity, and encourage action from governments and international organizations.
South Sudan, a country that became independent in 2011 after gaining independence from Sudan, has been facing a serious humanitarian crisis. Armed conflict, famine and violence have destroyed the lives of millions of people in the country. In a situation like this, the mass media plays a very important role in fighting the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. As a country still in the process of development, South Sudan faces a number of major challenges. Armed conflicts between different ethnic groups and border disputes with Sudan have led to violence and family separation. In addition, hunger and lack of access to food, clean water and adequate health facilities are serious problems in the country.
Mass media plays a crucial role in advocating for the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. As a powerful communication tool, mass media has the ability to influence public opinion and shape perceptions about critical issues, including humanitarian crises. Firstly, mass media serves as a window to the world, providing insights and understanding about what is happening in South Sudan to the international community. Through news coverage, documentaries, and articles, mass media exposes the harsh reality of the humanitarian crisis, including armed conflict, famine, and mass displacement. Secondly, mass media acts as an advocate for the victims of the crisis. By giving a voice to the voiceless, mass media helps to evoke empathy and solidarity from the international community. This is crucial for mobilizing support and aid for those most in need. Thirdly, mass media plays a role in pressuring governments and international organizations to act. Through critical reporting and analysis, mass media can highlight failures and negligence in handling the crisis, and push for change and reform.
However, the role of mass media in advocating for the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan also faces challenges. For instance, access to conflict areas is often difficult and dangerous, and there is a risk that reporting can be misused for propaganda purposes. Nevertheless, mass media remains a vital instrument in advocating for the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. With a commitment to ethical and integrity-driven journalism, mass media can help alleviate suffering and promote peace and justice in South Sudan.
The role of mass media in fighting the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan is very important. Mass media has the power to convey information, provide a platform for activists and advocacy groups, and increase global awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis. In facing challenges and obstacles, cooperation between the mass media, government and the international community is the key to overcoming the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan and building a better future for the country.
By: Mazaya Citra Nindita Putri
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