The media landscape in Fiji has faced significant scrutiny for historically misrepresenting key issues, which has contributed to social divisions and a lack of inclusiveness. Dr. Shailendra Singh, an Associate Professor of Journalism at the University of the South Pacific (USP), highlighted this concern in his recent statements, noting that this misrepresentation was a central theme of his PhD thesis.
Dr. Singh pointed out the media’s critical role in building an inclusive society, stating that it has often fallen short in fostering this inclusivity. He specifically addressed sensitive topics such as land use and population trends, which have fueled mistrust among the Fijian populace. He cited the 1987 coup, motivated by fears among indigenous Fijians regarding land loss, as a prime example of how misleading media narratives have exacerbated social tensions.
Historically, misrepresentation by the media can be traced back to colonial times, when some newspapers supported a divide-and-rule strategy to deepen societal divisions. Dr. Singh lamented that these practices have persisted even after Fiji gained independence. He emphasized the importance of fostering an informed public that engages critically with information, as he noted that most people tend to read newspapers rather than academic research.
Dr. Singh advocates for a shift toward factual, responsible journalism that can help bridge social divides and promote unity in Fiji. This sentiment resonates with earlier discussions among media professionals, such as those led by Fred Wesley, editor-in-chief of The Fiji Times, who emphasized the importance of nurturing a culture of acceptance and dialogue to support media freedoms. Wesley noted that despite Fiji’s diverse cultural identity, there are still significant underlying issues of intolerance that need to be addressed collaboratively to maintain peace within the nation.
The recent repeal of the Media Industry Development Act, which had restricted press freedoms over the past decade, opens a hopeful chapter for Fiji’s media landscape. Experts and journalists alike are keen on transforming the media environment into one that encourages transparency and representation of all voices, thereby fostering a more inclusive society.
Overall, with ongoing efforts and discussions surrounding media practices and inclusivity, there is a positive outlook for Fiji’s journalism landscape, paving the way for greater understanding and acceptance among its diverse communities.
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