Madagascar

Our Work

Promoting Social Cohesion through the Media

SFCG Madagascar, with funding from the European Union (through the EIDHR), is working to strengthen social cohesion by creating a climate conducive to freedom of expression, political and social tolerance, as well as the protection of human rights. The project will primarily target radio journalists in the capital and other urban areas and will be carried out in partnership with 25 radio stations in six targeted regions. We are working with radio stations and journalists because radio programs are accessible to all regardless of education, age, gender, or social status. By working with stations whether they are government-run or privately owned, religious in nature or youth-oriented, we ensure that our broadcasting is diversified and broadly disseminated amongst the people.

This project has four central activities:

1. “Common Ground” workshops for journalists – We have recently begun a series of workshops that will allow journalists to discuss ways to approach problems with a focus on finding solutions rather than highlighting tensions. The objective is to improve the ability of Malagasy journalists to report accurately and reliably during times of crisis through rumor management and conflict analysis. The Common Ground approach is a well-tested training method that works as a foundation for all of our journalist capacity-building activities.
   
   
2. Production of a twice-weekly national current affairs and analysis program – Compiled from reports and information from correspondents throughout the country, this program aims to provide objective, accurate, solution-oriented information about recent developments in Madagascar. Broadcasted on our twenty-five partner stations, the voices of the otherwise often unheard Malagasy as well as experts, officials, local representatives, and cultural leaders will gain a wide audience. The content is solution-oriented and based on dialogue, different perspectives, and historical context..
   
   
3. Production of a radio soap opera reflecting the everyday lives of the Malagasy – Experience has shown us that radio soap operas can be extremely effective in tense environments and are especially popular with youth and women. This format will allow us to address sensitive themes through fiction on all our partner stations. Based on our successes in Sierra Leone, the Ivory Coast, and the DRC, skits will deal with themes such as tolerance, human rights, civic education and domestic violence.
   
   
4. Development of a journalism network – We are also working to assist journalists to form a professional network so they can better promote and advocate on issues that concern them. This will also provide forums for editors and media owners to discuss strategies for developing good journalism.
   

In addition, SFCG Madagascar will publish and distribute professional radio development guides in Malagasy and French in order to strengthen local capacity to design programs encouraging dialogue and constructive engagement. These materials will be based on ‘Radio for Peacebuilding Africa' guides such as those on covering elections and developing youth radio.