As Fiji marks World Press Freedom Day, the Government recognises the vital role of a free and independent media in any healthy democracy.
That was the clear message from the Fiji Government as it marked World Press Freedom Day 2026, highlighting major reforms and a sharp rise in global rankings while also issuing a firm reminder to media organisations about responsibility and credibility.
Government said Fiji’s jump in global press freedom rankings—from 84th in 2023 to 24th today—was the result of deliberate policy decisions.
“Government welcomes the progress Fiji has made. Our rise in the global rankings from 84th in 2023 to 24th today is not by chance. It reflects deliberate decisions by Government to restore openness, rebuild trust, and strengthen access.”
Central to that progress, Government said, was the removal of restrictive media laws, including the Media Industry Development Authority(MIDA) framework.
“We removed restrictive media laws, including the Media Industry Development Authority framework, because we believed Fiji deserved a more open and confident media environment. We chose engagement over control, accessibility over distance, and transparency over restriction.”
The statement also highlighted financial support to media organisations through public service broadcasting grants, describing it as part of a broader push to maintain a diverse media sector.
“There is a valid policy position that such support should primarily go to our national broadcaster, the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation. However, it is this Government that has taken a broader approach because a strong democracy benefits from a diverse and functioning media landscape, whereas weakened media institutions cannot effectively serve the public, as alluded to by the President of the Pacific Island News Association President Kalafi Moala.”
Government said the occasion was both a celebration and a time for reflection, acknowledging regional concerns raised by the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA).
“We acknowledge President Kalafi Moala’s words that ‘there can be no lasting peace without truth, and no truth without a free and independent media.’ That is a principle Government fully supports.”
It also backed calls for stronger collaboration between governments and media across the Pacific.
“At the same time, his call for partnership between government and media is one we strongly endorse. That is the approach we are committed to here in Fiji.”
But alongside the recognition of progress, Government issued a direct warning about the dangers of poor journalism and misinformation.
“Government reminds the media that with press freedom comes responsibility. A free media must also be a fair media. A strong media must also be a balanced media. And a trusted media must always be a responsible media.”
“Incomplete reporting has no place in a democracy. Nor does reporting that amplifies misinformation, fuels division, or erodes public trust. In a time where misinformation, disinformation and malformation spread rapidly especially across digital platforms, the role of responsible journalism has never been more critical.”
“The power to inform must never become the power to misinform. And as PINA rightly stated, credibility is your greatest asset. Without it, the very freedoms we defend are weakened.”
Government also acknowledged concerns raised by the Fijian Media Association, including pressures faced by journalists and the impact of legal processes.
“Government acknowledges the concerns raised by the Fijian Media Association regarding pressures on journalists, including legal processes and evolving media practices. These are important issues, and we remain committed to constructive dialogue.”
It stressed that relations between Government and the media should be built on cooperation, not conflict.
“The relationship between Government and the media must not be defined by tension, but by mutual respect and a shared commitment to serving the public. Because ultimately, we serve the same people.”
In a direct message to journalists, Government underscored their role in shaping the nation.
“To our media practitioners: your role is essential. You are not just observers, you are participants in nation building. And with that role comes the responsibility to report with accuracy, balance, and respect.”
And to the public, it reinforced the value of press freedom as a pillar of accountability.
“To our people: a free media is your safeguard. It is how you participate. It is how accountability is ensured. And it is how trust is built.”
The statement reaffirmed commitment and called for higher standards across the industry.
“So today, Government reaffirms its commitment to media freedom. But we also call for responsible freedom, freedom exercised with integrity, balance, and professionalism. Because a peaceful and united Fiji depends on it.”
