Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) secretary general Henry Puna has condemned threats and targeted killing of journalists — especially those in war torn areas such as Gaza.
Mr Puna said threats against those reporting the war on the environment were mirrored by threats to those journalists reporting the war on democracy and the rule of law.
“I know many, like me, absolutely condemn the targeted killing of journalists, aid workers, civilians, and children in Gaza,” he said.
“It takes integrity, ethics, balance, and facts to challenge climate denial, climate misinformation, disinformation, and the rising frequency of attacks on journalists and news outlets reporting on the environment.”
He said quality journalism could build quality awareness and decision-making around a complex and multi-faceted issue already challenged by misinformation, disinformation, and lack of information access.
Mr Puna also said Pacific leaders recognised the significant role of journalists and environmental journalism in sharing the priorities and realities of the resilient Pacific.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, many will join me in honouring quality journalism, particularly our own Pacific journalists, who ensure our island communities are not silent in the face of the global environmental crisis.
“There can be no more important stories than those we must share with the world. Those helping our people in this work must be valued, respected, and celebrated.
“I have urged journalists across our Blue Pacific Sea of islands and the world to continue to expose and ask the questions around climate finance, loss and damage, the ocean-climate nexus, gender equality and social inclusion, the 1.5-degree, net zero future.
“And the need for urgent climate ambition and resilience financing. Not later, but now.”
