Pacific Journalism Review (PJR), launched three decades ago in Papua New Guinea, recently marked its 30th anniversary in Fiji with the publication of its 47th issue. This milestone is particularly noteworthy as PJR is recognized as the longest-running media, journalism, and development journal in the Global South.
The celebration held at the Pacific International Media Conference in early July featured the attendance of two cabinet ministers from Fiji and Papua New Guinea, highlighting the significance of the journal despite its history of holding power to account. Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad praised PJR at the event, which also saw the launch of a significant new book co-edited by him, titled “Waves of Change: Media, Peace, and Development in the Pacific.” The book seeks to analyze recent developments in the Pacific, asserting that without sustainable peace and stability, long-term development will be hindered.
Papua New Guinea’s Information and Communication Technologies Minister Timothy Masiu also participated in the discussions, voicing concerns about the influence of geopolitical agendas on media and advocating for a genuinely independent Pacific media.
Since its inception in 1994, PJR has transcended the role of a research journal, offering robust support for investigative journalism and various forms of media expression in the Asia-Pacific region. The journal’s purpose extends beyond research into journalism theory to encompass a wide range of contemporary media practices and educational inquiries. Areas of particular focus include the cultural aspects of media, environmental issues, and the role of media in shaping national identity within the Pacific context.
PJR has championed innovative methodologies in journalism, especially through its Frontline section, thanks to contributions from respected academics and journalists. At the anniversary event, five current editorial board members were present, celebrating the journal’s rich history and ongoing influence.
Reflecting on its legacy, the founding editor of PJR noted the inspiration drawn from the Australian Journalism Review and highlighted the need for quality Pacific-centric media literature and research during his tenure as head of journalism in Papua New Guinea.
Over the years, PJR has evolved from being published at the University of Papua New Guinea to various institutions, finally being managed by the Asia Pacific Media Network following the closure of the Pacific Media Centre.
Notable speakers at the anniversary events have underscored the journal’s value in facilitating research about Oceania, especially in times of political turbulence, such as military rule in Fiji and media censorship across the region.
As PJR looks ahead, it acknowledges pressing challenges such as navigating shifting geopolitical dynamics, tackling climate change, and engaging with ongoing decolonization discussions. In response, the team has been developing an innovative new publishing strategy to further enhance their contributions.
The current issue of Pacific Journalism Review addresses significant global topics, and the journal remains accessible to the Pacific audience via open access, serving as an essential resource for those interested in the media landscape of the region.