The Atlantic: “CNN Effect” Dies in Syria

Broadcasts of atrocities can prompt government action. While research has not confirmed a positive link, analysts suggest that 1990s reporting from Iraq, Somalia and Bosnia contributed to public expectations for US intervention. Despite an abundance of real-time reporting, the CNN effect may be a mirage for Syria: “the Syrian government’s relentless bombardment of the besieged rebel enclave of Eastern Ghouta has demonstrated just how muted the CNN effect is in Syria,” writes Uri Friedman for the Atlantic. “We read that hundreds of people have perished in what the UN secretary-general describes as ‘hell on earth’…. And yet there has been little public outcry in the United States over the military offensive and only belated and half-hearted efforts by world powers to stop it.” The UN Security Council approved a ceasefire in late February that lasted only hours. Numerous social media posts, especially unverified, competing or even false messages, contribute to public apathy. With a fast-moving news cycle, Russian and Syrian leaders ignore accusations, label reports as propaganda and wait for global attention to turn elsewhere. In the meantime, those under attack have lost faith in the world’s ability to deliver relief, and Friedman concludes that protecting civilians and shortening the war has not been a primary goal for major powers. – YaleGlobal