Journalists must work ‘impartially’
THE Citizens’ Constitutional Forum (CCF) CEO Louchrisha Hussain says journalists need to work independently and impartially while keeping citizens informed.
Speaking on the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, she said this year’s theme “Journalism Under Digital Siege” was relevant as the journalism sector found itself challenged by restrictions and forms of digital attacks on journalists,” she said.
“They (journalists) must be able to operate in an environment that allows creativity, analytical thinking and balanced reporting to support their work.
“In Fiji’s third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review which reviews the status of human rights in a country, Fiji had supported a few recommendations in 2019 concerning the freedom of opinion, expression and right to information.
“For instance a recommendation received from the United
States of America highlighted that Fiji safeguards freedom of expression by ensuring that criminal and speech related legislations are not misused to suppress
They (journalists) must be able to operate in an environment that allows creativity, analytical thinking and balanced reporting to support their work. – Louchrisha Hussain
media, civil society and opposition politicians’ discourse of the government.
“We acknowledge Fiji Government’s support towards such recommendations but by reviewing legations, we are able to identify areas that need reform to strengthen the protection of the media, its independence, impartiality and professionalism.”
Ms Hussein said CCF commended the work of the media in keeping citizens informed during the COVID-19 pandemic and in times of natural disasters.