So we have improved 45 places, from 89th spot in 2023 to 44 in 2024, in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) 2024 index that assessed media freedom in 180 countries.
After 16 years of recurring attacks on press freedom by former prime minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the RSF said the pressure exerted on the media by civil and military authorities has eased since the election of Sitiveni Rabuka as Prime Minister.
It noted the repeal of the draconian and unpopular Media Industry Development Act (MIDA) in April 2023 was an important step forward.
The sedition laws, which were used against The Fiji Times, it said, also fuelled a climate of fear and self-censorship, with the threat of sentences of up to seven years in prison.
After 13 years of suppression, it’s good to know that such organisations are noticing changes in the media landscape in Fiji.
That reflects what’s happening on the ground.
People are expressing their opinions without fear and that reflects the value they are placing on democracy even if they don’t realise it sometimes.
This is what we need. Freedom of expression is essential in a democracy.
We saw how the power of the people forced the Government to reconsider the estimated budget allocation for the National Economic Summit in 2023 for instance.
This is what it is all about, the people holding power to account, and the powers that be, in this case, the Government, responding.
It works both ways and it is great news for the media industry in Fiji, the people, and the nation.
People are commenting on issues of importance, and relevant to them.
They are being vocal and commenting without fear on a wide range of topics from sports to politics.
The ability to express opinions freely is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy and there is a growing appreciation for democratic values.
Our national 7s rugby team’s failures have attracted a lot of attention recently.
However, it’s the emphasis or complaints on such issues as our water woes, terrible health system, infrastructure development and other governance challenges for instance, that are inching out confidence to express frustration and anger, and there is hope when the powers that be respond appropriately.
Public pressure can influence decisions at the highest levels of governance.
And that’s the way it should be!
Power to the people and holding power to account.
People should be part of the mechanics of how our country is governed.
Our media landscape obviously presents a picture of cautious optimism.
The groundwork has been laid, but challenges remain.
So we push for robust legal frameworks that protect journalists and foster a culture of responsible reporting as crucial next steps.
In saying that, our ascent in the RSF index is a testament to the power of political will and collective action.
There is hope for tomorrow when we continue on this path, to strengthen our position as a nation where media freedom flourishes, empowering citizens and strengthening democracy.
