In May 2007, eminent freedom of expression international Non-Governmental Organisation, Article XIX, approached the FHRC to write a short piece on the freedom and independence of the media in Fiji for their 20th anniversary.
FHRC found gaps in the available material in the media industry especially on the extent to which media freedom and independence existed in Fiji.
This raised questions on whether the right of the public to accurate and balanced information was adequately protected.
A previous article was written for Article XIX in 1987 and covered topics such as freedom of expression, the coup of 1987, political systems, social and economic issues as well as media technologies.
FHRC was asked to up-date this entry under additional headings of media ownership, media workers, censorship and new technologies.
According to Dr Shameen, an inquiry by an independent consultant pursued under Section 7 of the Human Rights Commissions Act seemed to be the most appropriate way to conduct a study of media freedom and independence including of issues emanating from the 2000 and 2006 political upheavals.
Dr Shameem said critics of the Fiji media landscape were sent to FHRC by New Zealand journalist David Robie, the former Head of University of the South Pacifics Journalism School.
She said the Report is based on what the public stated to Dr Anthony.
The FHRC is aware that the media and others may not accept parts of the Report. However, they have been provided with several opportunities to be heard, she said.
Full report, stakeholder responses and discussion area at: http://www.fijitimes.com/media-report.aspx
