Reading Between the Lines: 5 Questions to Ask When Reading Western Media on Global South Conflicts

When there is a war or crisis in Africa, Asia, or Latin America, most people read about it in Western newspapers. These papers are from Europe or North America. They have a lot of money and power. But their stories often miss important parts. They might leave out history. They might only talk to leaders, not normal people. This commentary gives readers five simple questions to ask when they read these stories. These questions help us see the full picture. They help us understand the pain and the truth of the Global South. This is not about hating Western media. It is about reading with open eyes.