Digital Media and Its Role in Supporting National Reconciliation from the Perspective of PhD Students at the Faculty of Media, University of Benghazi (A Field Study)

Abstract

Libya, in the aftermath of the post-2011 events, faces immense challenges in building trust among the components of society and enhancing social peace, making national reconciliation one of the urgent necessities for restoring national stability. In this context, digital media constitutes an effective platform for communication and information exchange, and an influential force in shaping public opinion and promoting a culture of dialogue and tolerance. This study aims to explore the role of digital media in supporting national reconciliation from the perspective of PhD students at the Faculty of Media, University of Benghazi, as they represent an academic group endowed with critical awareness and the ability to analyze media discourse and anticipate ways to employ it in serving national causes. The study relied on the descriptive-analytical approach through a comprehensive survey of all PhD students (39 students), using an electronic questionnaire designed to assess the level of digital media usage, students’ awareness of its role in reconciliation, the methods and mechanisms of its employment, in addition to identifying challenges and practical proposals to enhance its role. The results also showed that students have a wide presence on digital platforms, especially Facebook and WhatsApp, relying on these media as the main source for following national issues. They demonstrated advanced awareness of the role of digital media in promoting community dialogue and reducing polarization, although its current effectiveness in confronting hate speech remains limited. The results confirmed that the employment of digital media in reconciliation is still fragmented and non-institutional, with an urgent need for organized digital campaigns, specialized awareness content, and clear mechanisms for positive influence. The study highlighted the main challenges facing digital media, including the spread of false news, weak media competencies, political polarization, the absence of legal frameworks, and the public’s limited critical culture. Accordingly, the study proposed a set of practical measures to enhance its role, including organizing purposeful media campaigns, training media professionals and students, involving academics in campaign design, developing a comprehensive national strategy, and activating the role of digital influencers, while benefiting from successful local and international experiences to consolidate a culture of national reconciliation and social peace.