Journalists play a central role in addressing environmental challenges and shed light on critical issues - Simpson

Journalists play a central role in addressing environmental challenges and shedding light on critical issues such as rising sea levels which not only garners international attention but also drives significant discussions and policy-making to address these crises effectively.

These were the words of Mai TV Director Stanley Simpson during the World Press Freedom Day celebrations at the Fiji National University in Nasinu.

Simpson says as we reflect on this year's theme “A Press for the Planet. Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis”, there is a growing need for journalists who are knowledgeable about environmental issues.

He says this is a day of call to action for the independence of the media and the protection of journalists, a day that recognizes the vital role that a free and independent press plays in upholding the public’s right to information and holding those in power accountable.

He says aspiring reporters should be encouraged to undertake environmental journalism, which is grounded in a solid scientific understanding, mentorship and continuous professional development which are crucial in nurturing informed and skilled journalists.

Simpson further says that press freedom allows journalists to explore and expose environmental issues without fear, ensuring that no critical information remains hidden and contributing to a well-informed public therefore independent and well-resourced journalism is essential for effective environmental reporting.

However, he says sometimes journalists can also be threatened with prison just for reporting on the environment.

He also says that journalism is continually evolving, especially with advancements in technology and modern journalists are increasingly relying on data journalism and satellite imagery to enhance the accuracy of their reports.

Simpson says as we move forward with new technology and face challenges in media ethics, we must remember what grounds us: our courage to speak up and tell it like it is as in the Pacific, our stories travel far from tweets to drone footage as they are our strength and our heritage.

He says we must stay firm, no matter the challenges as it is not just about reporting the news but about being a voice that can make a real difference therefore we should hold on to that, and never be afraid to tell the truth.