The role of national unity in nation-building: A participatory communication approach

Abstract

The nation-building project, which depends on national unity for national development, has always been linked to the question of national identity. The questions that keep coming up are: What is national identity, and why is it such a powerful force? Is a social community of people always better off for having a concept of national identity? This study used the lens of participatory communication to examine nation-building in a development context, where local people--who are considered the nation in this study--are typically given the chance to actively participate in identifying and expressing their needs, potential, and goals. The campaign on nation-building, national unity, and social cohesion should be issue-driven and convey clear messages, according to the content analysis. In order to bring South Africans together, the campaigns should incorporate a variety of voices, including those of experts, social commentators, and the general public. The theoretical approach offers details of the communication approach as it is operationalised in its primary aspect of relationship building for nation-building and national unity in a diverse democratic country. The study came to the conclusion that the development of participatory approaches to development communication is strongly aided by a focus on participatory development concepts and community facilitation processes.