JOURNALISM does not only inform or raise awareness, it really has the power to transform.
The remark was made by SPREP Pacific Islands Nature Based Solutions project coordinator, Utulei Lui while presenting virtually to journalists at the inaugural Regional Pacific Media training on Loss and Damage in Apia, Samoa yesterday.
“It helps connect people to nature, to policy and to one another,” Ms Lui said.
“And it really goes a long way in building momentum needed for real change.”
Ms Lui said accuracy was really paramount for journalists.
“And improving accuracy in using reliable data and cross checking our sources.”
Reflecting on the issue of sensationalism, she said it was important to provide contextual depth.
“So that when you’re reporting on certain events and things that have happened recently, we connect that with what the trends are and what the available policy frameworks have to do to cover that.
“Also taking it beyond timelines and the historical injustices around that.”
Ms Lui emphasised that media coverage must be sustained.
“It is so important that when an event happens, there is a lot of build-up and that is when there is a lot of momentum in getting stories out and getting stories covered, but it is equally important that you follow up on communities and these stories months or years after a disaster happens.
“This does really go a long way in showing commitment and helping hold systems accountable.”
Ms Lui presented on the linkages between nature-based solutions and a healthy environment to address loss and damage.
