Nepalese PJ project explained; Story topics discussed
(Kathmandu, Nepal)-60 journalists from India and Pakistan attending a cross border reporting workshop heard a fascinating presentation today from Nepalese journalism legend Kunda Dixit about his peace journalism project, which consisted of three books and a documentary film chronicling the Nepalese civil war (1996-2006).

Kunda Dixit

The project was centered around a photo book, “A People War,” that featured most prominently the impact of the war on everyday citizens—a hallmark of peace journalism. Dixit said the book was necessary since “the media has an important role, especially when the State tries to bury the conflict.” He said “A People War,” two additional books, the film, and photo displays around the country were important tools of reconciliation, “bringing people together” while providing a catharsis for the war’s victims. The second book, “Never Again,” chronicled written statements made about the war in a guest book that traveled the country with the photo displays. The most poignant statement in this book, Dixit said, was five simple words: “After the blood comes tears.”

The afternoon session at the workshop featured female Nepalese peacemakers discussing human rights and climate change.

In the morning, I led a session that reviewed peace journalism and guided the journalists to create peace journalism-inspired story topics in four areas: agriculture, environment, business/economy, and health. Their story suggestions are below.

Tomorrow, the journalists will be headed into the field to work on their cross border reporting assignments. Stay tuned for details.

PJ STORY IDEAS—From Indian and Pakistani Journalists

Story on draught, fetching water

Water wells; residents digging own wells because of government inaction

Challenge of getting reliable health information to women and girls in rural areas

Crop rotation as tool to save resources

Single use plastics

Resolution of conflict as driver of economy in Pakistani tribal regions

How Kashmiri lives are being impacted by changes in government policy

Air pollution, and its impact on infertility, and the associated stigma

Water conservation and recycling

Feasibility of health facilities serving those on both sides of the border

How Covid has impacted small and marginalized communities

Women’s self help groups and investing/reinvesting in small businesses

Women led dairy cooperative—can it be emulated in both countries?

Stories on achievements of grassroots female leaders

Collaborations on saving river dolphins

Unsung heroes stories

How small vendors can use solar panels

Rag pickers-how they aid recycling, but are mistaken for thieves

Small women’s co-ops that manufacture hygiene products