The Online Safety Commission in Fiji has issued a strong call for public vigilance in the fight against misinformation. Online Safety Commissioner Filipe Batiwale emphasized the critical need for digital literacy and cautioned the public to fact-check information before sharing it online. The commission is undertaking extensive educational programs across schools, villages, and workplaces to bolster the public’s ability to identify and combat misinformation.
Acknowledging the pervasive challenge of misinformation in Fiji, Batiwale conveyed that social media enables false information to circulate rapidly, often outpacing corrective measures. Despite resource constraints, particularly in reaching rural and maritime areas, the commission is steadfast in its resolve to mitigate these challenges.
“Our goal is to build resilience in Fiji against misinformation,” stated Batiwale, underscoring the necessity for citizens to develop skills in questioning, verifying, and thinking critically about online information. He stressed that a safer digital environment could be achieved by empowering individuals with knowledge and tools.
Batiwale highlighted the shared responsibility of all Fijians to pause and evaluate the reliability of content before disseminating it. He urged citizens to consider the potential harmful impacts of sharing unverified information. Encouraging responsible online behavior contributes to reducing misinformation’s spread and promoting digital safety.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts by the Online Safety Commission to enhance digital literacy, particularly as Fiji approaches the 2026 General Elections. The commission’s collaboration with government agencies, media, and civil society partners plays a pivotal role in correcting false narratives and promoting trustworthy information sources.
The urgency of combating misinformation is further echoed by various Fijian officials, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu. Their shared concerns highlight the need for vigilance in online interactions to prevent misinformation from undermining public trust and societal cohesion.
As part of comprehensive efforts to promote responsible social media use, the commission’s programs are poised to strengthen public awareness and foster an informed, resilient society. Such proactive measures can potentially transform digital engagement in Fiji, nurturing a safer and more informed community dialogue.
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