Terrorism and the Media

Whereas terrorism seeks to harness the power of media to spread messages, accurate reporting on terrorism and violent extremism can disarm narratives that may arouse hate and create misinformation. UNESCO accompanies media in their efforts on how to report on victims of terror, debunk rumours, report on the authorities’ investigations, conduct interviews with terrorists, report on their trials and other terrorism-related aspects, while avoiding self-censorship, sensationalism or glorification and safeguarding journalistic principles and standards. 

PARIS, FRANCE - NOVEMBER 14, 2015: Reporters working near the Republic Square in Paris after November 13 terror attacks in Paris.

"The scourge of terrorism, whoever commits or sponsors it, must be thwarted wherever it strikes, its victims supported and honoured, and its perpetrators brought to justice. Media can cover these dimensions, and at the same time highlight genuine dialogue and discussion as alternatives to violence and bloodshed."

Extract from the UNESCO publication Terrorism and the Media: A Handbook for Journalists