BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Federation’s OAS Representative, Starret Greene, has called the media “indispensable” in promoting good governance and democracy.
The diplomat was speaking exclusively to SKNVibes in light of the OAS’ issuance of a Joint Statement on Media and Elections. With general elections constitutionally due within the year, the communiqué bears even greater significance on residents of St. Kitts and Nevis.
It informs, “The four special mandates on freedom of expression – the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, the UN Representative of Freedom of the Media, the OAS Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information – on Friday (May 15) issued a Joint Statement on Media and Elections”.
The Joint Statement notes the importance of robust and open debate, as well as access to information, to elections and the key role of the media in framing electoral issues and informing the electorate.
It also calls for measures to create an environment in which the media sector can flourish; the repeal of laws that unduly restrict freedom of expression and protection against liability for disseminating statements made directly by political parties or candidates; and effective systems to prevent threats and attacks against the media.
Greene noted that the media was necessary for full societal comprehension of pertinent social and economic issues. He expressed strong OAS support for media practitioners and organisations throughout the region.
“An informed citizenry is essential for the effective functioning of our democratic process. It is the media’s responsibility to educate the public on critical issues so they can make decisions and choices about their democracy from an informed position.
“My organisation will continue to support freedom of the press and promote access to information, because we recognise that both factors are essential ingredients in a modern and progressive democracy.
