12 November 2021
The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) has handed out copies of the revised Journalist ‘Code of Ethics’ booklet and a Court Reporting Guide to its members' newsrooms.
Handing out the posters and booklets, MASI President, Georgina Kekea said, "These are guides for you all to use while doing your work."
She pointed out that MASI cannot dictate to its members how to do their work, but can continue to encourage them to stick to the general principles of journalism. She encourages the journalists to use the ‘Code of Ethics’ booklet and the poster guide on Court Reporting as tools to assist them in their day-to-day work.
“Lest we forget, we have a code of ethics to abide by and that we must strive to ensure we uphold the principles of journalism in all that we do. The credibility of the media industry lies in your hands”, the MASI President said.
The journalist code of ethics is a charter that sets the benchmark for the high professional standards that all journalists in the Solomon Islands have a duty to maintain. It is the duty of Newsroom editors and managers to ensure their journalists adhere to this ‘code of ethics.
“Editors are the gatekeepers of the newsroom. They control what comes out in the news. It is the role of the editor to ensure stories published by their newsrooms are accurate, balanced and fair”, MASI Board Member Dorothy Wickham said.
Ms. Wickham who played a leading role in the ‘code of ethics’ review said the onus is on the newsroom managers and editors to ensure their journalists act in accordance with the principles of journalism.
“Journalism is a profession that has been around for ages. As Solomon Islands journalists, we are no different to journalists in other countries. If other journalists in the world can respect the role they play and carry the profession with pride, why can’t we?” Ms. Wickham said.
The review of the journalist ‘code of ethics’ took place from July - September this year with journalists, media practitioners, and editors taking part in the review.
The team of executive members of MASI, visited Island Sun, Solomon Star, SIBC, BRAVA FM, ZFM, and Sunday Isles to personally hand-deliver the products.
MASI highlighted the assistance and support given by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation International Development and the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme.
Sources: MASI Press Release and Solomon Times Online
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
