By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK
INFORMATION Communication and Technology Minister, Timothy Masiu has expressed concerns over the decline in the quality of investigative journalism and the impact of substandard reporting on the development agenda.
He also highlighted concerns regarding the conduct, ethics, and accountability of journalists.
Masiu made these remarks in parliament while explaining the purposes of the Media Development Policy.
He stated that the policy aims to protect journalists, and his ministry is currently collecting quantitative and qualitative data to verify concerns about the safety of journalists.
He said that the lack of protection mechanisms for journalists is a significant issue that needs to be addressed.
Masiu stated that his ministry has been exploring options to reorganize state-owned media outlets over the last three years to coordinate the dissemination of government information better.
“We recognize that as government are lacking coordination in government information. The Ministry has identified that SMEs particularly in the modern media space are not recognized as professional and not given appropriate support. Based on these issues, the draft National Media Development Policy identifies four main objectives: Facilitating and coordinating access to information for citizens and ensuring that the media provides accurate, impartial, and balanced reporting on issues of public interest, including those affecting marginalized or underrepresented groups. Encouraging media diversity and supporting the representation of local and regional voices in media content and ownership. Ensuring that media organizations adhere to ethical and professional standards and promoting responsible journalism that respects local customs and cultures. Promoting civic engagement and participation in media issues, including through partnerships between media organizations, civil society groups, and government agencies.”
Masiu stated that by promoting access to information, media diversity, and responsible journalism, the policy aims to support the development of a more informed, engaged, and empowered citizenry in Papua New Guinea.
He said the draft National Media Development Policy aims to establish an enabling framework to recognize and develop the media sector in Papua New Guinea to support the country’s development agenda.
Current research and recent consultations have led to the consolidation of four main issues within the media sector.
