Evaluating The Role Of The Media In Communicating Terrorist Activities And Hostage Negotiation In Africa: Users' Perspectives.

The article evaluates the role of the media in communicating terrorist activities and hostage negotiations in Africa, based on a survey of 137 Africans across 17 countries. It finds that international media outlets, particularly those based in the USA, dominate coverage of terrorism in Africa, with African media playing a less prominent role. The study reveals no significant association between gender and awareness of terrorism, but identifies a link between age group and awareness levels; however, awareness does not correlate with opinions on media influence over hostage negotiations. While the media primarily serves an informative function and can pressure governments to act, it does not significantly influence hostage negotiation outcomes. The authors emphasize the media’s social responsibility to report terrorism ethically and responsibly, avoiding sensationalism and propaganda, and recommend collaboration between media and governments to improve counter-terrorism communication and public safety.