🇬🇧"Coverage of Conflicts" - Presentation of Professor Zaza Tsotniashvili's New Book at the Caucasus International University Multimedia Center's Panoramic Space

The presentation of Professor Zaza Tsotniashvili’s new textbook, "Coverage of Conflicts," was held.

How should a journalist cover a conflict, maintain ethical standards and objectivity, and what technologies can be used in the working process? The textbook answers precisely these questions and attempts to fill the existing gap in the Georgian university space.

According to the author, in this chaotic and dangerous reality, the role of the modern journalist has become critically important. Their duty is not only to report facts but also to understand the deep-rooted causes of the conflict, identify manipulative narratives, and realize their influence on media processes.

"I want to express my gratitude to Caucasus International University, as I was given the opportunity to realize the knowledge and experience accumulated over the years. The textbook represents a significant resource because it combines both traditional and modern approaches to conflict coverage. If previously the emphasis was on the journalist's safety—having appropriate equipment, clothing—now the main thing is simply not to be noticeable, and obtaining desired materials is possible with the help of drones, mobile phones, or other modern technologies. The book discusses ethnic, religious, economic, as well as technological conflicts. In this regard, too, I think it will be a significant novelty for our university space," stated Zaza Tsotniashvili.

Along with theoretical knowledge, the book shares local and international practical experience with the reader. It is intended for media program students, as well as practicing journalists and individuals interested in the field.

As Professor Estela Alonso del Barrio of the Journalism Department at the University of Valladolid (Spain) noted, the book is not limited to discussing only wars. According to her, the reading material is a complex guide covering social, religious, technological, economic, environmental, and informational directions.

"The author does not limit himself to definitions only but establishes a lively dialogue with the reader. Each topic combines theory, analysis of real cases, control questions, and practical assignments, which ultimately culminates in the creation of a journalistic product. The book poses a moral question to the reader: 'What can I do, as a journalist, to contribute to building a better world through my work?' In this regard, 'Coverage of Conflicts' is a book bearing peace-building perspectives. Although the textbook was created to meet a specific need existing in Georgia, the theoretical approach, demonstration cases, and professional landmarks presented here make it a book that can be successfully used at the journalism faculty of any university in the world," stated Estela Alonso del Barrio.

At the event, it was noted that classic wars have been replaced by civil and ethnic confrontations, while the battlefield has largely shifted from the physical to cyberspace, turning into a global information war.

The textbook emphasizes the media's potential to be not only a broadcaster of events but also a bridge for establishing trust and stability in society – this is how the book's editor, Professor Nino Chalaganidze, responds to the creation of the new reading resource.

"It is significant that the book 'Coverage of Conflicts' was published right now. In today's world, where armed confrontations, hybrid wars, and information manipulations have become everyday occurrences, understanding ethical, professional, and safety standards is crucial for journalists. The textbook combines theoretical foundations with practical examples (including the experience of covering conflicts in our country and region). This timely and necessary publication will help journalists avoid common mistakes: sensationalism, bias, re-traumatization, and will promote more balanced, accurate, and constructive coverage. It is especially important that the book has appeared now, when journalists are experiencing double pressure: on one hand, the necessity to deliver information quickly, and on the other, the struggle against disinformation and propaganda. The resource is recommended for media outlets, media schools, and the public who need a clear understanding of how our perceptions of conflicts are formed," noted Nino Chalaganidze.

The work aims to become an indispensable guide for everyone who wishes to cover conflicts professionally, ethically, with high responsibility, and using modern technologies, and to contribute to correctly informing the public.

The book was published with funding from Caucasus International University.