(New) media and diaspora intervention in conflict resolution: The case of Somalia

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(New) media and diaspora intervention in conflict resolution: The case of Somalia

Somalia is the proverbial "failed state": Since 1991 it has been largely without a functioning central government and is instead ruled by clan-based war lords. It ranks among the least-developed countries in the world, radical Islamists operating from both inside and outside the country have raised fears that Somalia, strategically located in the Horn of Africa, could become a safe haven for terror groups like Al Qaida.

With pluralistic structures and a vibrant civil society largely absent, and media freedom severely curtailed, Somalis heavily rely on informal networks for news dissemination and policy dialogue: Traditionally a nomadic people, Somalis are keen users of mobile communication technologies - the hightech hub Dubai is serviced regularly from Mogadishu by air. Internet fora, run by the large and politically extremely vocal Somali Diaspora, greatly influence news dissemination and political dialogue at home. But to what extent do these technologies contribute to conflict resolution? Can a case be made for the absence of a functioning regulatory body - and, ulimately, the absence of a functioning state ?

Hosted by Deutsche Welle

Moderation:

Christopher Springate, Free-lance journalist, reporter / presenter, DW-TV