The Samoan government has sparked outrage by imposing stringent media restrictions for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024, set to take place in Apia. The guidelines limit local and international media's ability to independently cover the event, with only two state-owned outlets granted exclusive rights to film and photograph proceedings. Other media organisations, both local and overseas, will be required to access pooled footage and photos via a helpdesk, which has raised concerns about delayed reporting and lack of editorial freedom. The guidelines also prohibit journalists from capturing their own content at key ceremonies and restrict access to certain venues, citing security concerns and the need to safeguard sensitive information.
The decision has drawn severe criticism from local journalists and media bodies who view it as an affront to press freedom. The Journalists Association of Samoa (JAWS) labelled the measures "ridiculous" and inconsistent with democratic values that the government claims to uphold. Critics argue that such restrictions set a dangerous precedent and undermine Samoa's international reputation, particularly given the nation's recent high ranking in the Reporters Without Borders’ global press freedom index. The Samoa Observer, condemned the guidelines as "a slap across the face of press freedom" and compared them to practices more commonly seen in authoritarian regimes, not democratic forums like CHOGM.
Local media representatives have urged the Samoan government to reconsider these restrictive measures, warning that they could damage the country’s standing on the global stage and hinder transparent reporting of a significant international event. There is a strong call for the government to respect the role of the media as an independent observer and information provider, crucial for democratic dialogue. As preparations continue for CHOGM 2024, the government’s approach to media management will be closely scrutinised, with journalists both in Samoa and abroad advocating for more open and inclusive access to ensure comprehensive and fair coverage of the event.
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