President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has emphasized the urgent need for responsible social media use, pointing out the negative impact of inflammatory remarks and trolling on democracy and political involvement. During the opening of Parliament in Suva, he expressed that online hostility and the spread of misinformation undermine productive conversation within the community.
He noted, “The exploitation of people’s circumstances online is demeaning. It’s crucial that the information shared on these platforms is accurate and promotes the common good, rather than stoking divisiveness among our people.” Ratu Naiqama urged everyone, including individuals and social media platforms, to cultivate a more respectful online atmosphere and take personal responsibility for their contributions to discussions.
This appeal for civility comes at a time when public concern regarding harmful online behaviors is rising, particularly following recent tragic events tied to social media. Additionally, there have been growing concerns over government actions, such as the blocking of dissenting voices on its official Facebook page, which complicates the situation of online discourse and highlights the importance of accountability and constructive criticism in a healthy democracy.
Legal experts and organizations like the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement have echoed these sentiments, criticizing toxic environments on platforms like ‘ChatFiji,’ which have been known to host derogatory content that encourages online bullying, especially targeting marginalized groups, including women and the LGBTQ+ community.
Ratu Naiqama’s focus on promoting accuracy and respect in online discussions aims to foster a more enlightening and inclusive political discourse in Fiji. Encouraging social media companies to implement stronger measures against harmful content could pave the way for healthier interactions online.
In a positive light, the ongoing conversations surrounding improved online conduct demonstrate a collective commitment among Fijians to create a more respectful and safe digital space. With a unified effort towards promoting civil dialogue and combating misinformation, there is hope for a more engaged and responsible citizenry in the near future.
Leave a comment