World Press Freedom Day: Media professionals urged to strengthen ethical and responsible journalism

The Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Hambyrajen Narsinghen, called upon journalists and media professionals to uphold ethical, balanced and responsible journalism, on 08 May 2026 in Port Louis, during the closing ceremony of a three-day training programme organised by the Media Trust.

Held in the context of World Press Freedom Day observed annually on 03 May, the training programme titled ‘Médias responsables et libres pour un avenir de paix’ aimed at strengthening the competencies of journalists and media practitioners in ethics, responsibility and the coverage of sensitive events. The programme, which took place from 06 to 08 May 2026, was led by the Director of Media Expertise, Mr Jean-Luc Mootoosamy.

Addressing participants, Junior Minister Narsinghen highlighted the important role played by journalists in safeguarding democracy, constitutional values and social cohesion. He stressed that a free and independent press must also remain responsible, particularly in a plural society such as Mauritius where reporting on sensitive issues requires balance, prudence and professionalism.

The Junior Minister further underlined the need for rigorous and accurate journalism in an era marked by the rapid circulation of information and the growing influence of social media. He urged journalists to verify facts thoroughly, avoid sensationalism, and ensure that reporting serves the public interest. According to him, ethical journalism should contribute to peace-building and help prevent divisions within society.

Mr Narsinghen also dwelt on the importance of continuous professional development for media practitioners and commended the Media Trust for organising the training programme. He pointed to the challenges facing the media sector, including financial pressures and political polarisation, while emphasising the need to support investigative journalism as a key pillar of transparency, accountability and democracy.

11 May 2026

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Topics: Others, Training