Envoy urges journos to stand firm against misinformation
英国高专敦促记者坚定抵制虚假信息
Envoy urges journos to stand firm against misinformation By GEHAZI SEKO Solomon Star, Honiara The British High Commissioner Paul Robert Turner has called on Solomon Islands journalists to remain committed to truth, accuracy and responsible reporting as misinformation and disinformation continue to challenge the media landscape. Speaking Friday during the official certificate presentation for provincial reporters in Honiara, Turner said the media plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability within society. He said journalists should not shy away from reporting on issues of public interest, including scrutinising the actions of leaders and institutions. He recognised the role of investigative journalism already taking place in Solomon Islands, saying reporters continue to show interest in important national issues, including politics, development and governance. He said such public-interest reporting is a normal and necessary part of every democratic society. “That happens in all democracies. That’s extremely healthy,” he said. He also spoke about the changing media environment, particularly the growing influence of social media and its impact on the spread of information. While acknowledging the benefits of digital platforms, Turner warned that social media can also create challenges when information is shared without proper verification. “Social media is amazing, but it’s also a huge danger,” he said. He encouraged journalists to maintain professional standards and use their credibility to counter misinformation. He said established media organisations have an important advantage because of the trust and reputation they have built with the public. He urged journalists to use that trust responsibly and continue providing accurate information to communities. The High Commissioner’s remarks came as provincial reporters completed a four-day training aimed at strengthening fact-checking practices and improving the quality of journalism across Solomon Islands.
英国高级专员保罗·罗伯特·特纳敦促所罗门群岛记者继续坚持真实、准确和负责任的报道,以应对错误信息和虚假信息对媒体环境带来的挑战。 特纳周五在霍尼亚拉为省级记者举行的结业证书颁发仪式上表示,媒体在维护社会透明度和问责方面发挥着关键作用。记者不应回避报道公共利益议题,包括监督领导人和机构的行为。 他肯定了所罗门群岛正在开展的调查性新闻工作,并指出记者持续关注政治、发展和治理等重要国家议题。这类公共利益报道是每个民主社会正常且必要的一部分。 他还谈到不断变化的媒体环境,尤其是社交媒体影响力上升及其对信息传播的作用。特纳在肯定数字平台益处的同时警告,未经适当核实的信息在社交媒体上传播也会带来巨大风险。 他鼓励记者坚守专业标准,利用自身公信力反击虚假信息。传统媒体机构凭借长期建立的公众信任和声誉具有重要优势,应负责任地运用这种信任,继续向社区提供准确信息。 特纳发表上述讲话之际,来自各省的记者刚完成为期四天的培训,课程旨在加强事实核查实践并提升所罗门群岛新闻报道质量。