Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica recently highlighted the urgent challenges posed by misinformation in today’s media landscape during the closing remarks of the Fiji Women in Media Inaugural Conference at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva. He expressed grave concerns over how truth has become a contested space, stating, “We live in an era of misinformation and disinformation, where lies travel faster than facts, and where narratives are manipulated with frightening precision.”
Kamikamica noted that social media platforms and algorithms not only reflect public interest but actively shape it, often prioritizing attention over accuracy. He warned that the rise of artificial intelligence has transformed the media environment, with AI now acting as a content creator rather than simply a tool, leading to the emergence of deepfakes and AI-generated misinformation—a reality many journalists now face.
These sentiments resonate with remarks made by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who has stressed the significant dangers of fake news in Fiji, especially as the nation approaches the 2026 General Election. The Prime Minister called for heightened awareness among citizens regarding the credibility of information consumed and shared online.
Additionally, discussions during recent media events have brought attention to the dualities of AI in journalism. While it presents valuable opportunities for enhancing productivity, it also raises ethical dilemmas such as the spread of misinformation and deepfakes. Journalists are encouraged to balance the benefits of technology with a commitment to maintaining the integrity of their work.
Despite these challenges, there is a sense of hope as community leaders and journalists work collaboratively to address the issues of misinformation. By promoting responsible media practices and encouraging public dialogue, Fiji aims to foster a culture of accuracy and trust in journalism. As the media landscape continues to evolve, ongoing efforts to prioritize truth and ethical standards could lead to a more resilient and inclusive media environment in Fiji.
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