In fragile states and regions faced with major crises such as the Sahel, women and girls face specific challenges participating in public life and are often excluded from political and peace processes. Local media can contribute to counter gender inequality and exclusion of women and girls in societies faced with multiple crisis and challenges. They can help women to play a positive role inbuilding peaceful, just and inclusive societies, which is central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 and SDG 16. Our event will bring innovative research material, as well as testimonials and stories from the field (Niger, Mali), which will contribute to the Geneva Peace Week discussions on « Global perspectives on peacebuilding ». It will show concretely how locally-owned approaches using inclusive tools such as radio in a fragile context such as the Sahel today can contribute to gender inclusion to build peace.

Speakers

Dr. Emma Heywood (Sheffield, UK), lecturer in journalism, politics and communication at the University of Sheffield. Her research focuses on the role of the media, and particularly radio, in conflict-affected areas. Since 2018, she’s been leading an innovative research study in Niger, analyzing the impact of radio on women’s empowerment in the country. This study is extended in 2019 to Mali.

Ms. Amina Niandou (Niamey, NE), President of APAC- Niger, the Niger section of the « Association des professionnelles africaines de la communication ».

Mr. Michel Beuret (Lausanne, CH), Head of Editorial Content at Fondation Hirondelle, former journalist and international correspondent for the Swiss Public Television RTS.

Registration here.