Complaint
The programme included an item with contributions from General Romeo Dallaire, commander of the UN Peacekeeping force in Rwanda at the time of the genocide there, and Carl Wilkens, the leader of a relief agency who had remained in Rwanda during that time. Both were invited by the presenter to consider whether there were parallels between what had happened in Rwanda and what was now happening in Gaza. A listener complained the discussion proceeded in a way which left the uncontested impression that Israeli actions in Gaza amounted to genocide. The ECU considered the complaint in the light of the ±«Óãtv’s editorial standards of impartiality.
Outcome
The intention behind the item (in the context of a series which has reflected a wide range of views on the Gaza conflict on other occasions) was to look at what is meant by the concept of genocide, drawing on the views of people with experience of it, and in the ECU’s judgement it yielded worthwhile points about how to work towards peace in situations of conflict and the importance of dialogue. However, the ECU agreed the item overall gave the impression of implicit agreement that Israeli action in Gaza amounted to genocide. Because the question of genocide in relation to Gaza is highly controversial, the item fell below the ±«Óãtv’s standards of impartiality by not challenging the impression of consensus or reflecting an alternative viewpoint.Â
Upheld
Further action
The finding was reported to the Board of ±«Óãtv News and discussed with the programme team.