'White Man to the rescue?' Improving coverage of international development in the UK media

The question in the title above is a quote from a survey recently carried out by the Institute of Development Studies, in which a number of journalists were asked about their experience of reporting on international development. The same difficulties and concerns were raised repeatedly: How can one compete for space alongside domestic issues whilst avoiding the use of sensationalism and stereotypes? How can a balanced view of development be projected when poor countries are often only deemed newsworthy in times of natural disaster or war? Our panel will discuss these challenges and how they might be overcome.

This event will provide an opportunity for those working in the media to come together and join the debate on how development journalism might move beyond 'white man to the rescue', and make a positive contribution to overcoming global poverty. IDS will also present some research and resources that we have developed to address these issues.