New media: weapons of mass communication?

Features in the February 2008 issue include:

Video debate: the new media - a help or hindrance in conflict situations?
NATO Review video debate. Representatives from the military and new media discuss how the growth of video postings, blogs and other new media impact on operations, mission support and morale in conflict zones.

Photo Story: war and reconstruction - an Afghan blogger's view Nasim Fekrat is a young Afghan whose blogs and photos have won international recognition. He sees new media as a key part of creating a new, more democratic society in Afghanistan. He gives NATO Review a insight into the effect new media has had on him and his country.

Across the wire
Few people know what it's like to be in a conflict situation as both a soldier and then a reporter. Vaughan Smith is one of those people. He describes how he sees the military's view of the media, both when he was a soldier and now as he makes full use of new media techniques in places such as Afghanistan.

Like a rollercoaster ...
How does working with the new media compare to working in the old media. Robert Pszczel highlights some of the differences - as well as giving an insight into how the media worked in the old Soviet bloc.

Can you speak rhinoceros?
The ISAF spokesman's position in Afghanistan is a key one in managing modern day messages in a conflict zone. Nicholas Lunt held this position last year and tells NATO Review the lessons learned.

• Primary Source