Peace is in the air: Reducing conflict intensity with United Nations peacekeeping radio broadcasts

Commitment problems and information asymmetries represent key impediments to peacekeeping. We posit that mass media-more specifically, United Nations (UN) peacekeeping radio broadcasts-is a cost-effective, easily implemented method of addressing common roadblocks to conflict resolution. We analyze monthly battle-related deaths across 51 UN peacekeeping missions during the years 1992-2014. Using negative binomial models with two-way fixed effects, we find that peaceful UN radio broadcasts are associated with decreased conflict intensity. We argue that radio-based, mass communication is particularly effective owing to the socio-economic conditions within conflict zones; these properties include severe under-development and lack of access to modern technology.

Automated summary

Mass media, particularly UN peacekeeping radio broadcasts, is a cost-effective and easily implemented method for addressing barriers to conflict resolution. Analysis of battle-related deaths in UN peacekeeping missions shows that peaceful UN radio broadcasts are associated with decreased conflict intensity.