PEACEWORKS 92
4. Countering Rumor Radio Satire Program
“Around the Well.” Many interviewees indicated the prevalence of rumor in shaping opinions
and potentially fomenting violence, especially in rural and ethnic communities. Rumors are
particularly dangerous when people have the tendency to accept information about interethnic
and interreligious conflict without verifying the information. This radio satire program will
feature characters considering the latest rumors while talking around a well, a popular venue
for sharing information in rural communities.
Technical elements
Target audience
Rural population, leaders, and decision makers
Format
Radio drama and live call-in program
Broadcast component
eekly fifteen-minute episodes in Burmese and ethnic languages; brief follow-up discussion program to
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present counternarratives
Outreach components
umorous storylines generated by actual rumors found on social media websites and in local communities;
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storylines focus on more trivial rumors to avoid sparking misunderstanding among listeners
oderated discussion program includes an invited guest, such as a community elder; more dangerous
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rumors also discussed
Cartoons in print media and online to illustrate the danger of certain rumors
Counternarratives presented during the radio discussion to dispel rumors also posted online
ocial media monitoring to track how dangerous rumors are spread and the effect the radio program and
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online forum has on presenting an effective counternarrative
Desired outcomes
Knowledge
Citizen understanding of the power of rumors and the negative consequences of believing them
Citizen understanding of the importance of verifying information and considering different sources
itizen understanding that by dispelling rumors, they can gain a better understanding of people with
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different ethnic and religious backgrounds
Attitude
Belief in capacity to filter information to solve problems
Trust built in other individuals and groups with separate and unique histories, cultures, and grievances.
Behavior
Information verified before being acted on.
Reliable sources of information sought out, and false information countered
Information that denigrates others rejected, and new lexicon of tolerance and mutual respect built
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