The role played by international print media in shaping Anglo-Zimbabwe relations (1999–2005).

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the role that international print media played in shaping Anglo- Zimbabwe relations between 1999 and 2005. International print media were accused of being imperialistic and giving a negative image about African countries in general and Zimbabwe in particular. It has been established that the relations between Britain and Zimbabwe deteriorated mainly over policy issues, especially the funding of the land reform programme in Zimbabwe. The international print media have focused on some of the negative developments in the country, for example, violent land seizures, violence during elections, corruption and allegations of human rights abuses in Zimbabwe and this contributed to the overall foreign policy decisions taken on Zimbabwe, by Britain and the European Union. However, the international media’s focus on Zimbabwe was not anything new as the media is attracted to conflicts worldwide. Media focus on violence and human rights abuses is in line with the media’s watchdog role. It has also been established that despite the intensive coverage from the print media in Australia, New Zealand, Norway and Africa, it cannot be concluded that this had a very direct influence on Britain’s foreign policy on Zimbabwe. This dissertation has also established that despite claiming to be a victim of international print media, Zimbabwe has played into the hands of the media as it has made policy blunders, for example deporting journalists, violent land seizures, mass destruction of illegal settlements without adequate notice and alternative accommodation which attracted foreign media attention.