Pristina, December 20, 2024 – Peace Broadcaster Closing Event: Empowering Young Journalists as Peace Reporters
End of December and one more significant milestone achieved, as 12 young journalists from WB6 successfully finished this year’s edition of Peace Broadcasters Program, focused on Intercultural Dialogue, Transitional Justice and Constructive Journalism.
From 2021 Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) in partnership with Deutsche Welle has been implemented this program with the aim of strengthening and enhancing participants’ skills and knowledge to maintain high journalistic standards within the fields of intercultural dialogue and transitional justice in the region.
The highlight of this year’s edition was the closing event on December 20th, which underscored journalism’s vital role in promoting peace and intercultural dialogue across the Western Balkans. The event brought together key figures from the media world to engage with regional journalists and strengthen regional cooperation. Over the past month, 12 new participants from the WB6 enhanced their journalistic skills, produced impactful content, and gained a deeper understanding of how journalism can foster peace and dialogue.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, H.E. Jörn Rohde, emphasized the pivotal role of media in shaping narratives for peace and reconciliation:
“Through media, stories are told, memories are shared, crucial debates are facilitated, and leading narratives are built. Peace broadcasting has the power to shape the narratives needed to advance peacebuilding and reconciliation.” He also highlighted Germany’s longstanding commitment to youth-focused peacebuilding initiatives, such as the Berlin Process and annual youth forums.
Youth Representative in RYCO Governing Board, Donika Zogu, praised the dedication and courage of young journalists, emphasizing their crucial role in breaking stereotypes and fostering understanding:
“Your voices are building bridges, breaking stereotypes, and bringing people closer together. That’s not a small thing, it’s the kind of change the world truly needs.” She also extended gratitude to Deutsche Welle and the German Federal Foreign Office for their unwavering support.
Head of RYCO’s Local Branch Office in Pristina, Krenare Gashi Krasniqi, reflected on the program’s evolution from a local initiative to a regional movement:
“The idea of Peace Broadcasting was not only to build capacities but to bring young journalists together with a shared purpose, promoting understanding and dialogue.” She further announced Kosovo*’s upcoming chairmanship of RYCO, signaling continued momentum for regional cooperation.
Director of Programs for Europe at Deutsche Welle, Adelheid Feilcke, underscored the transformative power of constructive journalism:
“Through constructive journalism, media can amplify positive examples, empower younger generations, and encourage cooperation across divides.” She shared impactful examples from Deutsche Welle’s initiatives in post-conflict areas, highlighting the significant role of cross-border collaboration.
Event was moderated by Local Program Officer, Ramadan Sokoli, who highlighted that Peace Broadcasters program has been vital in building partnerships among young people in the Western Balkans, promoting constructive journalism, building bridges, and learning new skills.
The panel discussion on the Role of Media in Peacebuilding and Regional Cooperation in the Western Balkans, moderated by Vjosa Çerkini, Deutsche Welle Correspondent, took place during the closing ceremony, featuring distinguished panelists who shared their insights on how media can drive peace and foster regional collaboration.
Aida Cerkez Robinson, a journalist from Bosnia and Herzegovina, reflected on media’s role in conflict and reconciliation:
“Every war starts with the dehumanization of the other side through the media. To reverse this, start humanizing the enemy.”
Fatjona Mejdini, an investigative journalist from Albania, described the intersection of journalism and peacebuilding:
“By exposing corruption and holding power accountable, investigative journalism contributes to building a better society and peace.”
Christina Atovska, a journalist from North Macedonia, emphasized the need for ethical journalism, noting its impact on fostering mutual respect and understanding.
During the closing ceremony, the best stories created by participants of the Peace Broadcasters program were awarded, recognizing the impactful and thought-provoking journalism that highlighted key issues of peace and reconciliation. The awards celebrated the participants’ dedication to using their voices to foster understanding, challenge stereotypes, and promote positive change across the Western Balkans.
Over the years, a total of 55 journalists have been trained through Peace Broadcasters program, with their impactful work published in prestigious media outlets, including Deutsche Welle, marking a significant contribution to the promotion of peace and dialogue in the region.
This year’s edition is organized within the project financed by the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs – “RYCOgnized – YPS Advocacy Efforts in WB6. With unwavering support from partners like Deutsche Welle and the German Federal Foreign Office, the Peace Broadcasters program continues to pave the way for ongoing collaboration and innovation in regional peacebuilding efforts.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.
