As we know, the world is becoming an increasingly stressful place - near and far, on a bigger and smaller scale. Lately watching the news is proving itself harmful on our general state of mind. However, there are some facts and their consequences, which I cannot help but notice.
If you remember, shortly after the Charlie Hebdo murders, a massacre with hundreds of victims took place in Nigeria, and two days ago another atrocity of proportions occurred at a Kenyan university. What is being rightfully contested by many people is the way the Charlie Hebdo murders, involving 12 victims, got a far bigger amount of media coverage and support from political leaders than the massacres in the two African countries. "Why is nobody sharing the slogan 'I am Nigerian' or 'I am a Kenyan student'?, "Why is nobody marching for all these innocent victims in Africa?" etc.
Journalistically speaking, and digging up the memories of my university courses, there are many characteristics of an event that make it more or less newsworthy. These characteristics include geographical proximity and elite nations. It is not fair, but it is the way the media reason. And this is the only thing that explains the difference between the levels of coverage and attention given.
However, as I said before, and as I am going to emphasize again, it is not fair. In front of God, or the Universe, or whoever we believe in, we are all equal. There is not one life more valuable than another, no matter which country we come from. So, what should be done? I would say that we should, first of all, not over-analyze the level of media coverage. No matter what, we are keeping ourselves informed, remaining aware and unbiased. We "are" not any of those victims, fortunately, just some people who can at least keep solidarity and a wish for peace in their hearts, without forgetting that maybe we are luckier than we realize, simply for being alive and for being safe. Let's enjoy these things while they last!
