Racism 'pervasive' in S.African media

A report by the Human Rights Commission in South Africa says there's pervasive racism in the country's media.

It calls on the industry to implement wide-ranging reforms.

The report, which follows a controversial two-year investigation, says many of the nation's newspapers and broadcasters could be characterised as racist institutions, and it highlights the preponderance of white employees in the media.

It finds racism in both the style of reporting and the attitudes of media organisations, and calls for journalists to take part in racism awareness courses.

It also wants more done to train journalists from South Africa's black majority population.

The inquiry polarised views between white and black journalists but the commission says it hopes newspaper editors and media owners will heed its recommendations and join a national effort to address sensitivities about race.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service