This study explores the pivotal role of digital media in promoting social peace and addressing societal challenges such as extremism. With the advent of Web 2.0 technologies, digital media has transformed societal interactions, offering opportunities for cultural dialogue, tolerance, and awareness while also posing risks of misuse. The study emphasizes the dual role of digital media—serving as a tool for fostering harmony or fueling division depending on its ethical use. The research identifies key factors influencing social peace, including displacement, inequality, marginalization, and the dissemination of extremist ideologies. Furthermore, it examines the impact of imported values and the media's role in shaping societal perceptions. Through a descriptive methodology and a survey distributed among Iraqi media professionals and educators, the study analyzes media’s role in promoting peace and mitigating extremism. Results indicate that political and religious topics dominate media consumption, highlighting their influence on public awareness and societal dynamics. The findings reveal that digital media, when employed ethically and strategically, can enhance social cohesion by advocating for values such as tolerance, respect, and coexistence. However, the influx of foreign cultures and unethical media practices has negatively impacted on social harmony, emphasizing the need for comprehensive media policies. The study recommends collaboration between media institutions and community organizations to develop content that fosters dialogue and reduces extremism. It also highlights the importance of citizen journalism and educational initiatives to promote a culture of tolerance. By addressing gaps in media ethics and professionalism, this research provides actionable insights for leveraging digital media to build a more peaceful and inclusive society.

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The Role of Digital Media in Promoting Social Peace

  • Bairq Hussein Jumaah AL-Rubaye,
  • Zina Saad Nushi

摘要

This study explores the pivotal role of digital media in promoting social peace and addressing societal challenges such as extremism. With the advent of Web 2.0 technologies, digital media has transformed societal interactions, offering opportunities for cultural dialogue, tolerance, and awareness while also posing risks of misuse. The study emphasizes the dual role of digital media—serving as a tool for fostering harmony or fueling division depending on its ethical use. The research identifies key factors influencing social peace, including displacement, inequality, marginalization, and the dissemination of extremist ideologies. Furthermore, it examines the impact of imported values and the media's role in shaping societal perceptions. Through a descriptive methodology and a survey distributed among Iraqi media professionals and educators, the study analyzes media’s role in promoting peace and mitigating extremism. Results indicate that political and religious topics dominate media consumption, highlighting their influence on public awareness and societal dynamics. The findings reveal that digital media, when employed ethically and strategically, can enhance social cohesion by advocating for values such as tolerance, respect, and coexistence. However, the influx of foreign cultures and unethical media practices has negatively impacted on social harmony, emphasizing the need for comprehensive media policies. The study recommends collaboration between media institutions and community organizations to develop content that fosters dialogue and reduces extremism. It also highlights the importance of citizen journalism and educational initiatives to promote a culture of tolerance. By addressing gaps in media ethics and professionalism, this research provides actionable insights for leveraging digital media to build a more peaceful and inclusive society.