Asia

Fiji

{This graph represents scores that have been modified by CIMA so that higher scores indicate a better media situation. It is intended to show trends over time; each index measures significantly different factors of press freedom. To see an explanation for how this graph was created, click here.}
 

Reporters Without Borders Description:

The military government tolerates the media as long as they do not criticise its administration of the country and particularly its political legitimacy. As a return to democracy is constantly postponed, there has been targeting of editors of publications and foreign journalists working in Fiji, three of whom have been forcibly expelled since 2007.

President Ratu Josefa Iloilo in April 2009, under the influence of the country’s strongman Rear Admiral Bainimarama, repealed the Constitution and announced the setting up of a “new legal order”. Soldiers and information ministry personnel took up positions inside newspaper, television and radio premises to control news content. The authorities said their 30-day mission was to prevent publication of news “likely to provoke disorder”. Two journalists were arrested and three foreign reporters were told to leave the country. A New Zealand journalist said after his expulsion that the Fiji media was coming under “very heavy pressure” from the government.

Read more on RSF’s site…

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