Multimedia

In recent years, the United Nations has emerged as an indispensible actor in Iraq, implementing a broad mandate which includes political dialogue and national reconciliation, electoral support, regional dialogue and humanitarian relief and reconstruction. As the U.S. role in Iraq diminishes, the U.N. and other international partners will be looked at to take on even greater responsibility. USIP hosted a stimulating discussion on the U.N.’s role in Iraq, Iraq’s political process and ongoing government formation efforts, and what comes next.

Nowhere is the media landscape changing more dramatically than in the news business. Newspapers and foreign news bureaus are dwindling, while other information sources are exploding with the rise of the internet, the citizen journalist, and social networking.  This panel discussed and considered recommendations designed to leverage the new news business for improved global conflict prevention.

There’s no doubt that stories can make a difference—whether it’s a radio drama for girls education in Afghanistan, a TV soccer soap opera in Kenya sparking cross-ethnic dialogue, or documentary like An Inconvenient Truth pushing climate change to the fore.  This panel considered how to amplify the potential of documentary and narrative film to help bridge inter-group conflicts, and looked at innovative new models for supporting storytelling that produces positive social change. 

This panel will explored recommendations for deepening our commitment to developing next generation peacebuilders when digital media platforms are driving skyrocketing media consumption among youth globally.

Ambassador Richard Solomon, president of the U.S. Institute of Peace, delivers opening remarks at "Seizing the Moment: Media & Peacebuilding," the third in a series of events hosted by the Center of Innovation for Media, Conflict and Peacebuilding titled "Media as Global Diplomat."

Ambassador Christopher Hill, having just completed his tour serving as America's top diplomat in Iraq, reflects on Iraq's transition, politics, current situation and future prospects.

Antony Blinken, the national security adviser to Vice President Biden, recently returned from his trip to Baghdad with the vice president. He outlined the Obama administration's views on the new U.S.-Iraqi relationship and Iraq's government formation process.  Dr. Laith Kubba, former spokesperson for the Iraqi government, provided a response from the Iraqi perspective.

In Haiti, the challenge of earthquake recovery has been compounded by the need to prepare for presidential elections on November 28. A panel of experts discussed the challenges facing the Haitian government and the international community.

The slogan “Build Back Better” has come to symbolize the commitment to help Haiti’s government and people address the roots of poverty and instability. Former Haitian Prime Minister Michèle Pierre-Louis shared her views on Haiti’s future.

Session 1: “The Failure of International Peacebuilding” showcases USIP Peace Scholar, Severine Autesserre’s new book, “The Trouble with the Congo: Local Violence and the Failure of International Peacebuilding.” Opening remarks and presentation by Séverine Autesserre, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Barnard College, Columbia University. Remarks by Raymond Gilpin, Associate Vice President, Sustainable Economies, Centers of Innovation, U.S. Institute of Peace; and Christine Karumba, Democratic Republic of Congo Country Director, Women for Women International. Moderated by Chantal De Jonge Oudraat, Associate Vice President, Jennings Randolph Fellowship Program, U.S. Institute of Peace.