Eugene, Ore. (7 May 2012) – Conflict is a critical element of most news reporting. Too often, journalists assigned to report on conflict find it framed by the combatants as a simple “us against them” story. That rarely is the case. Rather, conflict in news stories is multifaceted – and its causes and solutions are complex. Learning to report on conflict with a point of view oriented to what may be a solution rather than a simplistic “who wins and who loses” perspective can result in informative and constructive journalism of social value.
On May 10, 2012, conflict sensitive reporting will be explored by a number of media professionals and academics during the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication’s annual 2012 John L. Hulteng Conversations in Ethics. The event is free and open to the public.
“Techniques of conflict sensitive reporting provide news consumers with a more nuanced picture of events and may have the added benefit of helping to resolve conflict,” said Peter Laufer, James Wallace Chair in Journalism and Professor at the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication.
The day-long event is comprised of two panel discussions and a keynote address. This year’s keynote speaker is George Papagiannis, the former head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) office in Baghdad. Mr. Papagiannis is currently UNESCO’s Washington, DC liaison, providing a point of contact to the United States government, civil society organizations and other interested parties working on issues of interest to UNESCO. Papagiannis has reported and trained reporters in conflict and post-conflict zones worldwide.
The 2012 panelists include:
- Ross Howard, author of UNESCO conflict sensitive reporting curriculum
- Charles Jaco, former war correspondent with NBC and CNN, current St. Louis, Missouri television reporter
- Joanne Lisosky, Pacific Lutheran University professor, teaches conflict sensitive reporting overseas
- Dan Morrison, UO SOJC Instructor, embedded with U.S. troops in Afghanistan
- Tim Hicks, Director of the UO Master's Degree Program in Conflict and Dispute Resolution
PROGRAM
8:30 AM- Registration opens/Continental breakfast
9 AM- Conflict Sensitive Reporting: Techniques for Reporters Panel discussion to help reporters understand that looking at issues – whether global or local – as black and white renders them simplistic and exposes reporters to the danger of fueling conflict. Moderated by James Wallace Chair Peter Laufer.
12 PM- Conflict Sensitive Reporting: Lessons from the Field Keynote luncheon with UNESCO’s George Papagiannis
2:30 PM- Conflict Sensitive Reporting: A Question of Ethics. The panel will discuss how instructors in the arena of conflict prepare professionally to address ethical concerns. Moderated by John L. Hulteng Chair Tom Bivins.
WHEN
Thursday, May 10, 2012, 9 am - 4 pm
WHERE
Ford Alumni Center, 1720 East 13th (next to the Matthew Knight Arena), Giustina Ballroom
Eugene, Oregon
About the John L. Hulteng Conversations in Ethics
The John L. Hulteng Conversations in Ethics is an annual event made possible by the family of the late John Hulteng, former SOJC dean and professor, who set standards of journalism ethics that remain intact today.
About the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication
The University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication (SOJC) produces outstanding writers, editors, digital media makers, strategists, and critical thinkers by providing a program grounded in ethics, innovation, and social responsibility. Students hone their skills while participating in award-winning student media such as Flux, Mosaic, and Oregon News, and more than 10 student groups, including Allen Hall Advertising, Allen Hall Public Relations and the National Broadcasters Association. In addition to learning from an accomplished and diverse faculty, students have unparalleled opportunities to network and learn from experienced industry professionals. The SOJC hosts the annual Journalists- and Executives-in-Residence programs, as well annual events including the Ancil Payne Awards for Ethics in Journalism, the Hulteng Conversations in Ethics, and the annual Johnston and Ruhl Lectures. The school counts nine Pulitzer Prize winners among its more than 9,000 graduates. journalism.uoregon.edu