THE media has an immense role in the fight against terrorism and extremism. It shapes and moulds opinion and creates a narrative against the extremist mindset. However, in Pakistan, where most of the population is rural and poor, the role of social, print and electronic media becomes limited as the masses don’t have access to such media. Radio on the other hand is available to almost everyone, but the state has not tapped its potential to fight terrorism.

Ironically, the extremists are a step ahead of the authorities in this respect. The Taliban effectively used this medium to spread their propaganda in Swat in 2007. Taliban leader Mullah Fazalullah launched an FM channel illegally, making hate speeches that were heard by everyone in Swat. So effective is this medium that a large number of people of Swat made it a habit of listening to his broadcast. This went on for three months till the state woke up and closed the channel.

The state is yet to effectively use this medium to shape public opinion in backward areas to root out terrorism. Whenever we tune in to a local radio station all we get is songs and inane banter.

The authorities must use radio to root out extremist ideology and promote a peaceful progressive Pakistan.

Wisal Ahmad Mohmand

Mardan

Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2017