Minority rights-based approaches to the protection and promotion of the rights of religious minorities 2013, para. 71
Paragraph
Paragraph text
The media are key in shaping societal perceptions, and their often negative role in relation to minorities, and particularly religious minorities, is frequently cited. Participation in the mainstream media for religious minorities is essential. Part of the rationale for facilitating access to the media for religious minorities is to allow them to communicate their views and counter the prejudices and stereotypes that wider society may hold. Another rationale is for religious minorities to contribute content and expertise to the media in order for others to learn about their communities. This knowledge supports social cohesion, counters political forces that wish to paint all religious minorities as lacking in loyalty or as extremists, and enriches the pluralism and diversity of societies.