Media, citizenship and security: Towards the construction of a new Congolese political narrative?

Abstract

This article analyses the fundamental role of the media in shaping the public sphere and fostering citizenship in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting their importance in a context marked by chronic insecurity, the presence of armed groups and foreign interference. It demonstrates that the media, beyond their role in providing information and entertainment, serve as vehicles for political socialisation, collective resilience and democratic legitimisation. Despite being subjected to pressure, manipulation and censorship, they remain key actors in fostering national cohesion, denouncing violence and promoting peace. The study concludes that democratic consolidation in the DRC cannot be separated from security issues, and that only free, credible and responsible media can contribute to the emergence of a new political imagination that brings together democracy, security and responsible citizenship.

Keywords: Media, citizenship, security, socialisation and political imagination.

Received Date: April 21, 2026

Accepted Date: May 12, 2026

Published Date: June 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/713