FEO signs Terms of Reference with stakeholders to combat disinformation in electoral processes

In a groundbreaking initiative for the country, the Fijian Elections Office has signed the Terms of Reference with key stakeholders for the Collaboration for the Implementation of Unified Strategies to Prevent Disinformation in Electoral Processes in Fiji.

Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa emphasised the initiative represents a collaborative and proactive approach to empowering voters in Fiji.

Mataiciwa says they are empowering voters with accurate information and ensuring transparency throughout the electoral cycle.

She says this a significant step forward in strengthening Fiji’s democratic integrity by tackling the growing threat of disinformation.

The Terms of Reference, outlining four key areas of action, unites a diverse group of stakeholders, including the Fiji Media Association, Fiji Media Council, FemLink Pacific, Pacific Centre for Peace building, Online Safety Commission, the Electoral Commission of Fiji and the Fijian Elections Office.

The four focus areas are Civil Society Organization Engagement, Information and Effective Communication, Capacity Development Coordination and Online Safety Awareness and Addressing Disinformation.

The FEO says these strategies involve integrating counter measures against disinformation into existing programs, improving voter awareness, fostering capacity-building efforts, and collaboratively addressing online mis/disinformation. The signing of the ToR was held yesterday at the FEO Headquarters in Toorak, Suva.