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 Periodical article |
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| Title: | The role of libraries in information dissemination for conflict resolution, peace promotion and reconciliation |
| Author: | Echezona, R.I. |
| Year: | 2007 |
| Periodical: | African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science |
| Volume: | 17 |
| Issue: | 2 |
| Pages: | 143-151 |
| Language: | English |
| Geographic term: | Africa |
| Subjects: | libraries information dissemination access to information conflict prevention |
| Abstract: | Since 1970, more than 30 wars have been fought in Africa, the vast majority intra-State. There is a growing recognition among Africans themselves that the continent must look beyond its colonial past for the causes of current conflicts. The major factors identified are political, external, economic, ethnic and religious. There is as yet no consensus on the best strategies for conflict resolution. While no one has mentioned information dissemination as a way of resolving or containing conflict, recent studies have noted that lack of adequate or balanced information was the most significant cause of most of the violent conflicts, as in the case of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. Information dissemination or communication has been described as a need comparable with other basic human needs. For meaningful impact in conflict prevention and peace promotion, early warning information is needed. Effective information dissemination through libraries and the Internet will alert leaders and the people to impending conflicts, their causes, evolution, consequences and solutions. Without adequate information, people are bound to struggle for power or natural resources, which invariably leads to conflict. Community radio, television, cartoons can be used to alert or inform people in rural areas, while digital information systems such as email, Internet chat, web contact, video conferencing, list serve, can all be used to resolve conflict. Libraries are key players in fostering the information society. The revolution of ICT systems has revolutionized the way libraries deliver their information services. Through organizing seminars, through extension services and outreach, and in collaboration with NGOs, libraries and information centres can contribute to ensuring access to information and play a major role in conflict resolution. Bibliogr., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract] |
