"Information dissemination is constrained by political sensitivity, the vulnerability of public information campaigns to manipulation, the difficulties of ensuring accurate information flow and the logistical impediments of conveying information across Darfur. For these reasons, existing initiatives
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have been confined to ‘safe’ information – largely related to humanitarian programmes – using existing community structures and word of mouth. A few efforts have been made to incorporate drama, public address systems and illustrations instead of printed information. Mass information campaigns have attempted to reach a broader audience but the methods used are in need of improvement. The major shortfalls are the lack of outreach work by NGOs, an over-reliance on dissemination through sheiks, the lack of explanation as to the long-term nature of protection work, inadequate dissemination of agreements on and principles of voluntary return, the absence of impartial and trusted internal media and a platform on which IDPs can discuss their views and concerns. With regard to safety and security, the situation remains too precarious to engage in informing IDPs on secure areas. In respect of all other categories of information, there are sizeable obstacles to dissemination but it should be possible to circumvent them. The need to do this has been recognised. Darfuris and the humanitarian community need a medium of mass communication through which pressing issues can be dealt with. Existing word of mouth methods can be improved and supported but there will be no substitute for a public platform for discussion and dissemination." (Conclusion)
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