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V. Disputes
If you think about it, a large percentage of news stories involve
disputes of
some kind. Strikes, nasty divorces, protests, and wars are all forms of disputes.
Since they can be dramatic and affect large numbers of people, such stories
appear in the newspaper virtually every day. All disputes have basic similarities
and this makes it easy to form a plan for reading about them. Below are some of
the factors you should consider in reading a story about a dispute.
At least two sides and one grievance
Disputes have at least two opposing sides and at least one
grievance.
Thus, to understand a dispute you must find the information which identifies the
opposing sides and explains why they are in disagreement.
A recognisable sequence
Disputes begin with a grievance and usually move through a number of
stages before reaching a
resolution. If the process is peaceful, the adversaries
rely heavily on discussions and negotiations to gain an agreement. They may
even bring in outsiders to
mediate. If necessary they may use the courts—or
perhaps even an election. Particularly bitter disputes, however, can result in
violence. Disputes can be resolved through compromises or they can favour one
side over another. In the most extreme cases, one of the adversaries may suffer
total defeat, even destruction.
In reading a story about a dispute, think about what stage it has reached,
i.e., what has happened thus far, and what is likely to happen next. What
attempts have been or are being made to reach a settlement? Will the opposing
sides be able to reach an agreement by themselves or will it be necessary to
bring in outside mediators or perhaps leave it to a court to decide?
Pressure tactics
Adversaries try to gain advantages in even the most peaceful disputes.
They do this in many ways, but most disputes reported in the Bangkok Post
involve some type of pressure. Individuals or groups may threaten
demonstrations, boycotts, legal action, strikes or even violence. And if they
don’t succeed in winning their demands, they are quite likely to carry out these
threats. Their opponents may make counter-threats of their own and they, too,
have a whole set of
tactics available. Companies faced with a strike, for
example, may lock out their employees. Governments may jail protesters and, in
extreme cases, countries may take up arms against a disagreeable neighbouring
country. All this, of course, makes news.
When you read about a dispute, consider the tactics used by each side.
Also consider which side seems to have the stronger position. In a strike, for
example, consider how long each side is likely to be able to continue without
