Journalism is one of the oldest professions in the world.
In Fiji, journalists faced various challenges over the years, with media outlets and journalists often operating under the shadow of political interference and intimidation.
World Press Freedom Day celebration in Suva raised the crucial question of whether media freedom truly exists in the country.
Journalists play a vital role in society by uncovering injustices, holding leaders and the public accountable, and providing information that helps people make informed decisions.
However, in Fiji, journalists have been subjected to harassment and threats – even from leaders, violence, and imprisonment for their courageous efforts to uncover the truth and hold those in power to account.
The Fijian Media Association (FMA) yesterday, yet again, called for mechanisms to safeguard journalists and ensure their freedom of expression.
“They say that they have all these open-door policies, but what does it mean when current ministers, permanent secretaries and officials, who are empowered
to talk to the media, do not respond?”
FMA president Rosi Doviverata asked Attorney-General Siromi Turaga.
Journalists need to be able to work without fear of reprisal, harassment, or intimidation in order to carry out what they call passion in providing accurate
and unbiased information to the public.
The repeal of the Media Industry Development Act in 2010 last April was a positive step towards improving media freedom in Fiji. It has helped raise the
country’s ranking in terms of press freedom, showing progress towards a more open and transparent media environment.
As the A-G emphasised the importance of press freedom as a fundamental human right, it is crucial for the Fijian Government to ensure that journalists
can work without fear and with editorial independence.
Journalists must be recognised for the valuable role they play in society and provided with the necessary support, training, and resources to continue their important work.
Media freedom is essential for upholding democracy, fostering transparency, and promoting accountability.
It is imperative that Fiji and its leaders uphold these principles and create an environment where journalists can work freely and safely.
Only then can the Fijian media truly fulfill its role as the Fourth Estate and keep the public informed.
Journalists cry to be recognised in the important role they play in society.
They need a haven to work in, more financial and development training like the civil service, editorial independence, co-operation, transparency, fairness, and most of all, a decent pay pack to take to their loved ones at home.
The repeal of the Media Industry Development Act 2010 (MIDA) by Government last April is a good step forward for the local industry.
It has helped improve our ranking to 44th this year from 89th in a nation of free media compared to the past administration.
Fiji Media wants to be a strong and independent Fijian news arm.
With Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka labelling media freedom and freedom of expression as the oxygen of democracy, the assurance yesterday by Mr Turaga
can now write a new chapter in Fijian media where journalists can now work without fear for the sake of keeping Fijians informed.
Happy World Press Freedom Day.
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