Link between corruption and conflict highlighted

Participants of the recent four-day anti-corruption reporting workshop in Honiara, Solomon Islands facilitated by regional media expert Dr Shailendra Singh. Picture: SOLOMON STAR

By RONALD TOITO’ONA, SOLOMON STAR

There is a direct link between corruption and conflict in many resource-rich countries, says a regional media expert, Dr Shailendra Singh.

“In some situations, corruption and conflict feed on each other and often thrive together,” said Dr Singh, the lead facilitator at a recent anti-corruption workshop for Solomon Island journalists, held in Honiara.

Dr Shailendra Singh. Picture: SOLOMON STAR

Dr Singh, whose PhD thesis focuses on peace journalism and conflict-sensitive reporting,  said there were many benefits of addressing corruption, including as a peace-building strategy, so it was imperative that journalist focus on this area.

The four-day UNDP-funded workshop at the SIBC, organised by the Media Association Solomon Islands (MASI), was attended by 20 local participants.

Dr Singh said in fragile situations, a trained and professional media corps was critical to address issues relating to conflict and corruption – in an informed and responsible manner, without inflaming the situation any further.

Dr Singh pointed out that corruption was not only within the government system itself, but also existed in the private sector and civil society. Even the news media are prone to corruption.

“In terms of victims, no one is left unaffected by the negative effects  of corruption,” said Dr Singh.

“That is why it is important to fight against corruption:  it seriously undermines political legitimacy and stability, as well as development,” he added.

Turning to the media, Dr Singh stated it was a challenge and threat for journalists and the media organisations covering corruption because of potential backlash – financial, political and physical.

He said journalists and media organisations take great risks and should be appreciated and commended for the work they do.

*Edited by WANSOLWARA STAFF. The original article appeared in the Solomon Star on April 24, 2018.