The media under scrutiny; journalists have their say

What are your views on the role of media in Thailand's current political crisis?

Pradit: In general, I'm satisfied with the media's reports, including those of the government-owned NBT. They try to balance the space of every partisan view and reflect the varied attitudes within society. What I'm concerned about most is that the mainstream media must not be a tool of propaganda and distort information like the Dao Siam newspaper did during the October 6, 1976 crisis.

Ubonrat: Society nowadays views the conflict as abnormal and a problem. However, in social politics, conflict normally arises, and this time the media is [embroiled] in partisanship. What we should consider is the position of the media in this conflict and how much they are involved in the problem.

What is neutrality in this crisis?

Pradit: I can't say if we are neutral, but we try to be fair with every partisan view by allocating equal space for every opinion. We have to make [available] the variety of opinions that exist and the media are the best spaces for presenting these differences in society.

Ubonrat: The media are involved a lot in party politics and they should accept that they cannot make a report without bias.

What do you think about the call for the media to "filter" information that "hurts" society?

Pradit: I agree. News that instigates hatred is news that distorts the facts. During sensitive conflicts, the media should base their reports on verified facts. Moreover, the media should perceive information carefully and not be used as a propaganda tool. If reports cause misunderstanding, they may add fuel to the violence.

Ubonrat: [I don't agree.] It's a different approach. We have to accept first that society can make proper judgement, and can manage a variety of opinions. Society can determine what is right and wrong. For example, for those who voice misinformation, they will lose credibility with the public. Moreover, those who use the media must hold responsibility for what they do, since the media are public [forums].

What do you think about the view that the media should find solutions to the crisis?

Pradit: I agree. We have been criticised for presenting the story without context and understanding, and that it is what we should improve. The TJA has published a handbook for professional journalists on how to report during sensitive crises. I am confident that the mainstream media can find a solution for society.

Ubonrat: There is no right solution. It's a paradox that while the public accuses the media of many things, it still expects to see the media find a solution and be "unpartisan". However, as the media are also public institutions, it's normal for the public to urge the media to change as they wish. The media may take this into consideration, if they want to change or not.

What do you think about allegations from the red shirts, accusing mainstream media of being unfair to them?

Pradit: They have the right to voice their dissatisfaction, but there are reasons for the reports. Most of the information they voice is rumour and the word of propaganda, and, surely, we cannot publish this. If we present misinformation, we will lose our credibility. Anyway, this happens with both the reds and yellows

Ubonrat: The red shirts have a feeling of being denied. And as they are not satisfied with the mainstream media, they create their own media. However, in the commercial media, they may have to adjust to the equilibrium and distance themselves from party politics. However, in the political media, they may continue to pursue their political goals.