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The "Halo Effect" Shields NGOs from Media Scrutiny

[Jerusalem Post] Naftali Balanson - Whenever a highly political, non-governmental organization (NGO) - funded by the EU and European governments - issues a report on alleged Israeli human rights violations, the media uncritically promote it, regardless of the NGO's credibility or the veracity of the allegations. This "halo effect," whereby the claims of human rights groups are accepted without a modicum of scrutiny, often results in Israel's vilification and demonization. By dint of its presumed independence and stated lofty goals, the NGO is considered more truthful than the Israeli government. The media pits universal human rights against Israel, leaving it to respond on the defensive. By publishing these stories, the media reinforces the halo effect and becomes partner to the damage done. The writer is managing editor of NGO Monitor.
2008-08-15 01:00:00
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