The Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Sakiusa Tubuna launched the Conflict Sensitive reporting manual at the University of the South Pacific earlier this week.
In recognising the crucial role, the media plays in shaping public opinion, the manual which was produced by Dialogue Fiji, aims to provide guidance to journalists on how to report conflicts in a way that is sensitive to context emphasising the need for accuracy, impartiality, and sensitivity.
In his remarks, Assistant Minister Tubuna stated that the manual will undoubtedly serve as a useful guide for our journalists as they continue to play a vital role in our societies.
“In April this year, the Coalition Government abolished the draconian Media Industry Development Act (MIDA) and as envisaged by our Hon. Prime Minister, media freedom and freedom of expression is and will remain one of the major focuses of the Coalition Government,” the Assistant Minister stated.”
“Our journalists should also remember that with freedom, comes responsibility. This is important, especially in a multi-ethnic society like Fiji. Reporters should adhere to their professional code of ethics at all times and exercise balance and objectivity in the coverage of major national events.”
Assistant Minister Tubuna acknowledged independent actors like Dialogue Fiji in its bid to safeguard media freedom and promote responsible journalism by initiating the formulation of this manual which will in turn foster more resilient and robust journalism positively contributing towards a progressive society.
