Fiji still struggles with social issues due to the coup culture, and we require commitment from every sector – Dr. Singh

Fiji is still struggling with social issues for more than 50 years due to the coup culture which requires commitment from every sector in our nation including the media.

This was highlighted by University of the South Pacific Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Journalism Program Dr. Shailendra Singh during the launch of the conflict-sensitive reporting manual produced by Dialogue Fiji.

Dialogue Fiji Executive Director Nilesh Lal says the conflict-sensitive reporting manual emphasises the need for accuracy, impartiality, sensitivity and the avoidance of stereotypes to help prevent the escalation of conflicts and promote understanding and peaceful resolution.

Lal says the manual aims to guide journalists on how to report conflicts in a way that is sensitive to the context, actors involved and the potential impact on society.

He says the manual also provides practical tips and techniques for conflict-sensitive reporting.