Broadcasting for peace in Kosovo
20 February 2008
Related pages:
Kosovo country profile |
G8 agreements on conflict
Since emerging from a period of unrest in 1999, Kosovo's political status has
caused conflicting emotions amongst its people. Home to a range of communities,
there has been a lot of rumour, disagreement and confusion about the future path
of the region.
Last year, the Kosovan radio station Urban FM put together a series of
broadcasts to improve understanding of this complex issue. Urban FM's audience
cuts across ethnic groups, and there are signs that the broadcasts have had a
positive effect in key places. DFID provided funding for the programmes as part
of a wider initiative to reduce conflict in troubled parts of the world.
Communities listening to each other
In addition to clearing up some of the confusion about the proposals for
Kosovo's future, the station also sought to promote discussion amongst the
different communities. Greater understanding of other viewpoints - whether they
are ethnic Albanian, Serb, Roma, Ashkali or Kosovan Egyptian - is vital for
building a peaceful Kosovo. All Kosovo's people, from all groups, needed to be
aware of how they are likely to be affected by an independent Kosovo.
With its high listening figures, diverse audience and popularity amongst
young people, Urban FM was a natural channel for getting across the message of
mutual understanding and the crucial political facts. And, although there is still huge
difference of opinion, unfounded rumours have been dispelled and listeners have
shown willingness to hear the other side.
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Working to reduce conflict
 The funding for Urban FM came through the Global Conflict Prevention Pool (GCPP).
This programme has been a notable success in Kosovo, and even served as a model
for other countries in the region.
Its activities in Kosovo include helping people displaced by war return to
their homes, supporting the establishment of the Ministries of Justice and
Interior, and even resolving property disputes. The GCPP has also assisted in
setting up community centres so that rural minorities can have a say in local
government decisions.
Committed to innovation and cooperation, the programme has encouraged
stability during a difficult - but exciting - time in Kosovo's history. As
Kosovo moves forward, new GCPP projects should continue to work for
understanding and harmony.
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Key facts
- DFID funded Urban FM from March to September 2007 through a grant of
£18,000 from the GCPP.
- The GCPP is run jointly by the
Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO),
the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and DFID.
- In the last financial year, the UK Government committed over £3
million to the GCPP.
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