The inaugural National Forum on Media and Information, organized by deputies Karol Aquilina and Claudette Buttigieg, emphasized the crucial role of free and independent media in a democratic society. The event, attended by numerous journalists, editors, and media professionals, opened with a tribute to Daphne Caruana Galizia and Karl Gouder.
Aquilina highlighted ongoing parliamentary discussions on laws impacting journalism, stressing the necessity for supportive media, genuine journalism, and the fight against fake news. Minister Jonathan Attard assured continued governmental consultation on media legislation.
Speaker Anglu Farrugia called for ethical reporting, asserting that “every report must be based on the truth.” Participants, including Professor Andrew Azzopardi and lawyer Therese Comodini Cachia, urged for reforms in the Broadcasting Authority and the implementation of recommendations from the Caruana Galizia murder inquiry.
Concerns about disinformation were echoed by professors Alexiei Dingli and George Vital Zammit, who warned against the dangers of fake news. The forum concluded with calls for open dialogue and critical analysis, emphasizing the need for accountability in media practices and the importance of fostering a culture of independent journalism.
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