Fiji has formally submitted a bid to host the 2026 Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) Media Summit, proposing Savusavu as the venue. This announcement comes as over 70 media professionals from seven different countries gather in Alofi, Niue, for the 7th PINA Media Summit. The decision regarding the host country for 2026 is anticipated to be made later this week.
The summit officially commenced today, following four pre-summit workshops that engaged participants in critical discussions. Topics covered include the strengthening of national media associations, effective reporting on public finance management, and the challenges posed by climate and environmental changes in the Pacific.
One of the highlights of this year’s pre-summit activities is the “Women in Media” workshop, which is facilitated by femLINKpacific and supported by The Asia Foundation, focusing on improving gender representation and leadership in the media. This session has attracted over 15 participants from various organizations across the Pacific and Australia.
The main summit will revolve around the theme “Navigating Media Resilience: Press Freedoms, AI, and Geopolitical Interests.” Discussions will center on how Pacific media can adapt to technological advancements and respond to external pressures. Stanley Simpson, general secretary of the Fijian Media Association, underscored PINA’s significance in influencing regional media and upholding journalistic integrity amid these challenges.
Throughout the week, attendees will delve into the role of artificial intelligence in journalism and stress the necessity of protecting press freedoms. The summit will conclude with the publication of the “State of the Pacific Media Report” and the PINA Annual General Meeting.