Amid violence, Pakistani-Indian journalists spread goodwill
In the wake of the recent Pakistan-India violence, online disinformation and hate speech is flourishing.

In both countries, Facebook and X have been “awash” with misrepresented claims that have been amplified by media outlets the have published “false or unverifiable claims of military victories that experts say have exacerbated tensions and contributed to a flood of hate speech.” (France24) This mis and disinformation includes “doctored clips, misleading war footage, and AI-generated content. Footage from unrelated conflicts—like those in Gaza and Ukraine—(have been) passed off as fresh evidence from the India-Pakistan front.” (The420)  

However, there is a group of Indian and Pakistani journalists who are paddling against this malevolent, hateful current.  Not coincidentally, these journalists were part of a cross-border reporting project spearheaded by the East-West Center.

Since 2015, about 150 Indian and Pakistani journalists have participated in EWC cross border reporting projects. I was one of the trainers for two of these initiatives in 2022 and 2024. In both years, we met the journalists online first, then in person in Nepal, for trainings that included peace journalism, multimedia reporting skills, as well as content-specific strategies on reporting the environment, business, agriculture, and health. After the trainings, the journalists teamed up (one Indian, one Pakistani) to report on issues of mutual importance. (Click here to access some of their reports and to see a short video where the journalists discuss their experiences as cross border reporters).

As part of each workshop, the journalists connected on WhatsApp. They have continued to interact on this platform even years after the cross border reporting project officially ended. Usually, they use WhatsApp to share stories they’ve written, seek feedback, and make requests of one another (e.g. “Does anyone know a gynecologist who can comment on the connection of heat and its effects on women’s health?”).

Knowing that many of the journalists are still active on WhatsApp, it was with some trepidation that I finally signed on myself to see what they’ve been saying about the recent violence South Asia that nearly sparked an all-out war.

I had no reason for concern. In fact, I couldn’t have been more thrilled with what I read.

“OK guys, just putting it out there,” was the first message I saw after the violence erupted. “Please stay safe wherever you are and on whichever side of the border. Take care. Love and peace to you.”

Other messages stuck a similar tone. “Stay safe everyone, love and hugs,” read one. Others said, “This time shall pass,” “Hopeful,” "Following this, we have a lot of work to stitch up the holes,” and perhaps my favorite, “May peace come soon. May love be stronger than hate for all people on both sides.”

Since the recent violence, there has not been one negative comment in their WhatsApp group.

This WhatsApp lovefest in the midst of violence is a reflection on the character of the cross-border journalists. Imagine how difficult it must be for Indians and Pakistanis to speak out about the humanity of their supposed “enemies” while a violent conflict rages?  To fall into line and spout reflexive patriotism and assign blame to the “enemy” is easy, but to paddle against the current with messages of compassion, tolerance, and peace takes genuine bravery.

The journalists’ determined commitment to one another and to “the better angels of our nature” is validation for the concept of cross border collaboration which was pioneered at the East-West Center by Susan Kreifels and her colleagues. If these journalists hadn’t met, hadn’t learned and worked together, would such a show of humanity be possible? Kreifels and cross border project trainers Randy Smith, Laura Ungar, Steve Rice, and Sara Shipley-Hiles have been the perfect role models and trainers for these journalists, adeptly dispensing their unique, invaluable brand of compassionate professionalism.

The last note on the subject on the WhatsApp thread was written by one of the strongest, smartest female journalists I know. She summed it up nicely, writing, “Guys, we did it. We proved we can be professional for the greater good despite patriotism. It was tough but we made it. You should be proud of yourselves for rising to the occasion. (Heart emoji). I am proud to know you.”

So am I.

Young leaders in Santa Fe
I just landed in Santa Fe, NM with 25 young leaders from Southeast Asia. We're continuing a program that's been underway in Hawaii the last three weeks (see previous blogs). Stay tuned for updates.