The Struggle for objectivity, compassion and the right words on the Middle East conflict | GMF 2024

The October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas and other militant Islamist groups on Israel and the subsequent ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, marked by bloodshed, destruction, and famine, has polarized the world like no other armed conflict in recent history. Journalists covering the Israel-Hamas war are confronted with a completely new dimension of violence, misinformation, and propaganda.

How can we discuss and report on Israel and the Palestinian territories without bias?

To what extent are we able to portray the suffering on both sides and how do we ensure that differing voices are heard? Is this even possible when there is no free access for journalists into Gaza? Which solutions can media professionals use to unmask disinformation and manipulation?
As we discuss these issues, we will try to identify what we can learn from the current criticism of reporting to improve coverage of further conflicts in the future.

Panelists:
- Susan Neiman, Director of the Einstein Forum
- Nada Bashir, award-winning International Correspondent for CNN
- Barkha Dutt, one of India's best known broadcast journalists and the founder of Mojo Story
- Shani Rozanes, DW's Conflict Zone producer and Middle East analyst
- Hazem Balousha, distinguished journalist based in Gaza

You can watch all DW Global Media Forum 2024 sessions here:    • GMF24