On 17 October 2019, academics from British and Colombian universities and peacebuilding practitioners met at the University of Bristol for the seventh Embrace Dialogue Academia seminar, to discuss the role of media and post-truth in the context of post-peace accord Colombia. They emphasised the role of journalism and social media in supporting peace.

Colombian civil society has produced many creative initiatives during the peace process to share inspiring local stories about overcoming differences and transforming violence. Projects like Colombia 2020 demonstrate the value of going beyond the written word in media communication, and digital activism, using social media and digital platforms to support peacebuilding, has evolved.

However, Colombian society remains deeply polarised. New expressions of hatred circulate in the public sphere, targeting FARC ex-combatants and supporters of ex-presidents Juan Manuel Santos and Álvaro Uribe, and public repudiation of the peace process itself abounds. The political shift in government towards the right is leading to increased stigmatisation of the left. Social media platforms are strengthening stereotypes on both sides by connecting individuals with like-minded others. Public opinion is being shaped by divisive stories, either in favour of or against the peace accord and the institutions it created. Reality is no longer as important as the narratives in the public sphere.

It is encouraging to see the shift in political culture of the FARC from one of dogma and exclusion to one that is open and understanding of difference. As academics, we recognise our role in helping public understanding of key issues in the peace process. We call for the media and communications sector to promote peacebuilding by amplifying stories from conflict-affected regions, including through multimedia digital platforms, to enrich understanding among urban populations, while being sensitive about how to communicate painful stories of victimisation. New narratives must be constructed around the peace process that foster trust, empathy and solidarity across divisions in Colombian society.

Ultimately, communication is not limited to the media: all Colombian society can contribute by talking responsibly about the conflict and the peace process in public, private and online spaces.