U.S. Embassy Bamako Sponsors Regional Media Conference in Bamako

December 18 – 20, 2008

U.S. Embassy Bamako and USAID Bamako sponsored a regional media conference in Bamako from December 18 – 20, 2008 on the topic of the role of the media in conflict resolution and the promotion of peace and democracy.  The conference, organized through the Malian media organization, Maison de la Presse, and in conjunction with the African Federation of Media Organizations (FAMCP) brought together journalists from Mali, Niger, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Benin and Togo to discuss practical ways in which local media can help advance peace, security and democracy around the world.  At the opening ceremony on December 18, Ambassador Milovanovic reminded the participants of the requirement to “serve the public trust by using your skills as journalists to support the democratic process within each of your counties as well as to foster peaceful dispute resolution in your communities.”