Burkina Faso: The crucial role of the media in crisis management, when the Burkinabe Media Observatory sets the clock back
On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Burkinabe Media Observatory (OBM) presented its first general internal observation report on the press at the Norbert-Zongo National Press Center in Ouagadougou. This report, covering the period from December 2023 to September 2024, highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the national press while emphasizing its crucial role in the current crisis faced by Burkina Faso, marked by the fight against terrorist armed groups.
In reviewing the content of Burkinabe media, the OBM identified several shortcomings, primarily concerning ethics, journalistic standards, and the mastery of journalistic genres by media professionals. The report reveals that many journalists are still unfamiliar with the Burkinabe Journalist Charter in its 1990 and 2015 versions and struggle to distinguish appropriate language levels for their content. The quality of journalistic writing, as well as the titles and captions of articles, also suffers from significant deficiencies.
However, despite these challenges, the report highlights the resilience and dynamism of the media sector, especially in the context of the ongoing security crisis. The media plays an indispensable role in supporting the process of reclaiming national territory. During this fight against terrorism, journalists find themselves at the forefront of the battle for information and public awareness.
The OBM’s report emphasizes that, although it is difficult for the media to operate fully in the field due to the security context, their work remains crucial for relaying local realities, mobilizing public opinion, and ensuring national support for the war effort.
The OBM also noted a lack of media involvement in the activities of major institutions like the Presidency and the Prime Minister’s Office, which often prefer to communicate via press releases. This phenomenon limits journalists’ access to direct public information, potentially undermining the necessary transparency during a crisis.
While providing a critical assessment, the OBM recognizes the importance of the media in resolving a crisis like that of Burkina Faso. Their role in disseminating accurate information and their ability to raise public awareness during wartime are major assets for the country’s stability. The recommendations call for strengthening professionalism, improving collaboration between authorities and the media, and increasing resources to enhance the quality of journalism during this crucial period.
