New models, same practices? Examining professional values and peace journalism training

Abstract

Existing work on peace journalism would suggest that some journalism cultures may be more receptive to—or perhaps already practice elements of—peace journalism. However, little research has documented, nor explored, perceptions of peace journalism when its practices are perceived as customary to situated professional environments. To better understand this phenomenon, this study examines how journalists ascribe value to peace journalism training, particularly when they were reportedly familiar with, or already practicing, peace journalism. Drawing on in-depth interviews with journalists from Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, findings suggest that values associated with attending peace journalism trainings at times transcend the ostensible goals of workshop organizers. These values include trainings as a means for building professional networks, improving general journalistic skills, and fulfilling social expectations. Understanding these professional values contextualizes the adaptation of peace journalism across contexts, with implications for journalism professionalization processes more broadly.