This three-page brief summarises a systematic evidence review by Schoemaker and Stremlau (forthcoming). It discusses the strength of the evidence that currently exists around the role of media and information in periods of conflict and political change. It finds that, while there are frequent claims that the media promotes or prevents conflict, there is little evidence to support or refute these claims.
Key Findings:
- The evidence suggests the need for caution when planning interventions using media and technology for political change.
- Interventions using media and technology in fragile and conflict affected situations should be viewed as innovative rather than tried and tested.
- The media appears to play a different role in the developing world than is often assumed, and local realities are insufficiently explored and understood.
- Rigorous evaluations should be a key component of future media interventions.
