BY JOY OFASIA
Robert Iroga says the biggest threat to media freedom in the Pacific today is money problems. He spoke on Monday at a World Press Freedom Day event and shared his concern about the future of journalism.
He said the theme for this year’s event is about peace, human rights, development, and security, but none of these can exist without a strong and free media.
“Media freedom is no longer just about physical attacks on journalists,” said the founder and publisher of Solomon Business Magazine (SBM), a board member of the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), and the chair of the Pacific Freedom Forum. “The real danger now is the declining financial sustainability of media organisations.”
He explained that many media companies are earning less money and finding it hard to continue. “Revenues are shrinking, and many outlets are struggling to survive,” he said.
Because of this, experienced journalists are leaving their jobs for better pay in public relations and other fields. This is creating a serious gap in newsrooms.
Mr Iroga said this is now the biggest challenge to media freedom in the Pacific, including Solomon Islands. He warned that financial pressure can make media organisations more open to outside influence.
“This responsibility does not lie with journalists alone,” he said. “All of us must protect, support, and strengthen the systems that allow truth to be told.”
He added that the stories people choose to tell will shape the nation’s future. “Let that future be one where truth is not feared, but defended,” he said.
He called on governments and communities to support local media through funding, training, and fair policies. He said without strong support, independent journalism may continue to weaken across the region. This would affect democracy and limit people’s access to reliable information.
He urged young journalists to stay committed despite challenges and keep telling important stories.
