BY MORRIS NAFU
At the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga this week, Jeremy Gwao of Tavuli News, representing the Pacific Anti-Corruption Journalist Network (PACJN) and Pacific Media, highlighted significant challenges facing journalists in the region.
Gwao emphasised that journalists in the Pacific face substantial barriers to freedom of information due to cultural and political influences, which hinder the media’s ability to report effectively on issues of integrity and corruption.
Gwao outlined several key priority areas, urging Pacific journalists to align their focus with the Teieniwa Vision’s implementation plans.
He advocated for stronger partnerships with governments to facilitate access to information and to enhance the media’s role in reporting on integrity and corruption.
He called for improved transparency in public administration, emphasizing the need for better organizational, functional, and decision-making processes to ensure secure access to information.
Gwao also pushed for initiatives to increase public awareness of integrity values and anti-corruption efforts, particularly targeting youth engagement.
Additionally, Gwao proposed effective memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with organizations like the PACJN, Pacific Islands News Association, and national media associations such as the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI).
He stressed the importance of government support for journalists’ rights to maintain accountability and uphold a transparent, democratic society.
“Strengthening inter-sectoral and inter-generational advocacy on the right to information, including policy dialogue and youth involvement, is essential,” Gwao stated. He also highlighted the need for a robust whistleblower protection regime and the use of digital tools to support the right to information.
Gwao underscored the importance of involving journalists in developing Right to Information and Freedom of Information legislation, noting the Palau Media Association’s role in reviewing the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
“Journalists cannot fight corruption alone; it requires a collaborative approach,” Gwao expressed. “I urge leaders to take this issue seriously and to recognize the critical role of journalists in ensuring media freedom and transparency,” he concluded.
