My Analysis on the PNG Media Policy v4 - 2023.

This comprehensive document outlines the policy's intent, provides insights into the PNG media landscape, and highlights key trends and issues in the media sector.  

Due to the changing world, we live in today, the Department of Information and Communication Technology has embarked on developing a national media policy to capture developments of the PNG Media. However, the PNG Media Council president, Neville Choi, says some aspects of the media need government support. These include the protection and training of journalists. He added that the media is best left as a self-regulating industry.  

Below is a summary of the National Media Policy from my perspective. I have also briefly used case studies from New Zealand and Australia to support my thoughts on some of the elements the policy should have captured or may have been captured but too broad to understand. 

Firstly, how has the history of the media sector in PNG influenced the development of this policy? The history of the media sector in Papua New Guinea has significantly affected the development of the National Media Development Policy 2023. Some key points from the document that reflect this influence include: 

 

1. **Colonial Origins**: The media laws in PNG have colonial origins and were imposed at a time when illiteracy was high and media access was limited. The policy recognises the need to update these outdated laws and address the historical context in which they were established. 

2. **Evolution of Media Landscape**: The media landscape in PNG has rapidly evolved from traditional to modern media with the advancement of digital technologies enabled by the Internet. This evolution has necessitated a review of the media landscape and the development of a coherent media policy to adapt to these changes. 

3. **Local Content and Indigenous Ownership**: The policy emphasises developing and monetising local content, promoting community media, and encouraging indigenous ownership in the media sector. This reflects a shift towards recognising and valuing local voices, cultures, and languages in the media landscape. 

4. **Challenges and Opportunities**: The history of the media sector in PNG, marked by market-driven developments and infrastructure limitations, has presented challenges in maintaining independence, credibility, and responsible practices. The policy aims to address these challenges through regulatory frameworks, capacity building, and support for self-regulation to foster a vibrant and accountable media landscape. 

 

Overall, the historical context of the media sector in PNG has shaped the objectives and focus areas of the National Media Development Policy 2023, guiding its efforts to promote quality, diversity, and accountability in the media sector while aligning with the country's cultural and developmental priorities. 

Secondly, what are the key objectives of the National Media Development Policy 2023? The key objectives of the National Media Development Policy 2023 for Papua New Guinea are outlined as follows: 

1. **Legislation Specific to Media Sector**: The policy aims to inform legislation specific to the media sector and update existing laws to align with the evolving changes in the media landscape. 

2. **Promotion of Quality and Responsibility**: It seeks to promote and enhance quality and responsibility in the collection, publication, and broadcasting of news and information across various media platforms such as television, radio, print, and the internet, including social media. 

3. **Harnessing Government Media**: The policy aims to harness and develop the potential of government media to disseminate positive development news and information effectively. 

4. **Establishment of Content Quota and Resourcing System**: This plan aims to establish a content quota and resourcing system to create an enabling environment for diversified multimedia to develop and effectively use local content. 

These objectives are designed to guide the development and implementation of the policy to ensure responsible, accountable, and ethical journalism while promoting freedom of expression, access to information, and professionalism in the media sector. 

Thirdly, what are some of the emerging trends and challenges in the regional media landscape addressed in the document? The draft National Media Development Policy 2023 for Papua New Guinea addresses several emerging trends and challenges in the regional media landscape. Here are some of the key points highlighted in the document: 

1. **Digital Transformation**: The media landscape is rapidly evolving with the emergence of new technologies, including online news websites, social media platforms, and mobile applications. The increasing use of mobile phones has accelerated the shift to digital media, making social media essential for citizen journalism, bloggers, influencers, and content creators. 

2. **Media Freedom and Independence**: Maintaining media freedom, independence, credibility, and responsible practices in the digital age is a significant challenge. Efforts are being made to address these challenges through policy interventions and establishing regulatory frameworks that support a vibrant and responsible media landscape. 

3. **Limited Resources and Bias**: Papua New Guinea media faces limited resources, bias in reporting, and political interference. These factors can impact public trust, safety, and the credibility of media organisations. Efforts are needed to address these challenges to uphold democratic values and promote responsible journalism. 

4. **Misreporting and Misinformation**: During events like the COVID-19 outbreak, misreporting and misinformation can harm public trust and safety. Combating misinformation and promoting ethical journalism is crucial to ensuring accurate and reliable information reaches the public. 

5. **Safety and Solidarity**: Journalists in the region face threats and safety concerns, highlighting the importance of ensuring a safe working environment for media professionals. Regional journalists call for solidarity and support to address safety issues and promote ethical reporting practices. 

These trends and challenges underscore the need for proactive measures to protect media freedom, promote ethical journalism, combat misinformation, and create a conducive environment for a vibrant, responsible, and independent media sector in Papua New Guinea and the broader region. 

Here are my thoughts on the National Media Policy and some elements I thought the document could have captured or included while developing it. 

Firstly, Did the policy document capture data analysis, and how can it be used to formulate content for respective media houses? 

Yes, the draft National Media Development Policy 2023 for Papua New Guinea includes data analysis as part of its formulation process. The document mentions a national media survey conducted by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) team, which received feedback from various stakeholders, shaping the content and direction of the policy. Data analysis is crucial in formulating content for respective media houses by providing insights into the media landscape, consumption patterns, and public perceptions. Here are some ways in which data analysis can be used to formulate content for media houses: 

1. **Audience Insights**: Data analysis can help media houses understand their audience demographics, preferences, and behaviours. Media houses can tailor their content to better resonate with their target audience by analysing data on audience interests and consumption habits. 

2. **Content Optimization**: Analysing data on content performance, such as engagement metrics, click-through rates, and social media shares, can help media houses optimise their content strategy. By identifying what types of content perform well, media houses can create more content that resonates with their audience. 

3. **Trending Topics**: Data analysis can reveal trending topics and issues that interest the audience. Media houses can use this data to create timely, relevant content that capitalises on current trends and events. 

4. **Personalization**: Media houses can personalise content recommendations for their audience by analysing individual user preferences and behaviour data. Personalised content can enhance user engagement and loyalty. 

5. **Performance Tracking**: Data analysis allows media houses to track the performance of their content over time. By monitoring key performance indicators, media houses can assess the effectiveness of their content strategy and make data-driven decisions to improve performance. 

Data analysis is valuable for media houses to understand their audience, optimise content strategy, capitalise on trends, personalise content, and track performance. By leveraging data insights, media houses can create more engaging, relevant, and impactful content for their audience. 

Secondly, what essential points did the document not capture that may be useful in Papua New Guinea? 

While the draft National Media Development Policy 2023 for Papua New Guinea covers many important aspects of the media sector, additional points could be considered to enhance the policy's effectiveness and relevance further in the Papua New Guinean context. Here are some essential points that the document did not capture but could be helpful: 

1. **Media Literacy Programs**: Implementing media literacy programs can help educate the public on critical thinking, digital literacy, and the ability to discern credible information from misinformation. Promoting media literacy can empower citizens to engage with media content responsibly and critically. 

2. **Support for Local Content Production**: Encouraging and supporting local content production across various media platforms can help showcase Papua New Guinean culture, languages, and stories. Investing in local content creation can promote cultural diversity and preserve indigenous knowledge. 

3. **Collaboration with Indigenous Communities**: Engaging with Indigenous communities and incorporating their perspectives in media content can foster inclusivity and representation. Collaborating with local communities can ensure their voices are heard and respected in the media landscape. 

4. **Digital Inclusion Initiatives**: Addressing digital divide issues and promoting digital inclusion initiatives can ensure that all Papua New Guineans can access digital media platforms and technologies. Bridging the digital gap can promote equal opportunities for participation in the digital media space. 

5. **Environmental Journalism**: Given Papua New Guinea's rich biodiversity and environmental challenges, incorporating environmental journalism into the policy can raise awareness about environmental issues, conservation efforts, and sustainable development practices. Environmental journalism can contribute to promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability. 

6. **Media Ethics and Standards**: Emphasizing media ethics, professional standards, and self-regulation mechanisms can uphold journalistic integrity and credibility. Establishing clear guidelines for ethical reporting practices and accountability can enhance public trust in the media. 

By incorporating these additional points into the National Media Development Policy, Papua New Guinea can further strengthen its media sector, promote cultural diversity, empower citizens with media literacy skills, and address emerging challenges in the digital age. 

Thirdly, what are some disadvantages of this media policy? 

While the draft National Media Development Policy 2023 for Papua New Guinea aims to create a vibrant and diverse media landscape and address various challenges in the media sector, there are potential disadvantages or challenges associated with implementing the policy. Some of the disadvantages of this media policy may include: 

1. **Regulatory Burden**: The policy may introduce new regulations and compliance requirements for media organisations, which could increase administrative burdens and operational costs. Excessive regulation may stifle innovation and limit media freedom. 

2. **Enforcement Challenges**: Ensuring compliance with the policy provisions and regulatory frameworks may pose enforcement challenges, especially in remote or rural areas where monitoring and oversight mechanisms may be limited. 

3. **Resource Constraints**: Implementing policy initiatives, such as funding local content production, promoting media literacy programs, and supporting capacity building for media professionals, may require significant financial resources. Limited funding and budget constraints could hinder the effective implementation of the policy. 

4. **Potential for Censorship**: There is a risk that certain provisions in the policy aimed at promoting responsible reporting and ethical journalism could be misused to censor dissenting voices or critical reporting. Safeguards must be in place to prevent censorship and protect freedom of expression. 

5. **Digital Divide**: While the policy addresses the importance of digital media and information dissemination, there may be challenges in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to digital platforms, especially in remote or underserved areas with limited connectivity. 

6. **Impact on Media Diversity**: The policy's focus on supporting traditional media outlets and promoting local content production may inadvertently limit the diversity of voices and perspectives in the media landscape. Efforts should be made to ensure that independent and alternative media sources are not marginalised. 

7. **Gender and Inclusivity Challenges**: While the policy aims to promote gender equality and youth programs in the media sector, there may be challenges in effectively implementing these initiatives and ensuring meaningful participation and representation of women and marginalised groups in media production and dissemination. 

Addressing these potential disadvantages and challenges will ensure that the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea achieves its intended goals of fostering a responsible, diverse, and inclusive media environment while upholding freedom of expression and media independence. 

Other than that, what are the advantages of the media policy? 

The draft National Media Development Policy 2023 for Papua New Guinea presents several advantages that can positively impact the media landscape in the country. Some of the key advantages of this media policy include: 

1. **Promotion of Media Freedom**: The policy upholds the fundamental principles of freedom of expression and information, providing a framework that empowers the media industry to thrive while preserving media freedom. This can lead to a more open and democratic society where diverse voices are heard. 

2. **Support for Local Content**: Including provisions for content quotas for media companies in Papua New Guinea can bolster the production and dissemination of local content, enhancing representation and diversity in the media industry. This support for local content can promote cultural preservation and showcase Papua New Guinean stories and perspectives. 

3. **Infrastructure Development**: The policy emphasises infrastructure development and partnerships to ensure accessibility and efficiency in media dissemination. The policy aims to improve media access and content distribution by investing in ICT and media infrastructure, especially in underserved areas. 

4. **Community Media and Independent Outlets**: Encouraging the establishment of community media and independent outlets can increase the representation of local voices and offer alternative perspectives in the media landscape. This can foster media diversity and promote citizen engagement in media production. 

5. **Gender Equality and Youth Programs**: The policy aims to promote gender equality in the media sector and encourage youth media programs. By empowering women and youth in media production and representation, the policy can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse media environment. 

6. **Professional Development**: The policy emphasises training and capacity building for media professionals, with the National Media Commission playing a vital role in supporting media development initiatives. This focus on professional development can enhance the quality of journalism and media content in Papua New Guinea. 

7. **Alignment with Core Values**: The policy recognises the importance of reflecting Papua New Guinea's multilingual diversity, cultures, and core values in media content. It aims to serve the public interest and contribute to national development by promoting quality and enlightening news and information. 

Overall, the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea offers advantages such as promoting media freedom, supporting local content, improving infrastructure, fostering community media, advancing gender equality, and enhancing professional development. These advantages can contribute to a more vibrant, diverse, and responsible media landscape that serves the interests of the public and aligns with Papua New Guinea's cultural and societal values. 

If this media policy is compared to the Australian media policy, what could Papua New Guinea learn from them? 

When comparing the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea with the media policy framework in Australia, there are several key lessons that Papua New Guinea can learn from Australia's approach to media regulation and development. Here are some aspects that Papua New Guinea can consider learning from the Australian media policy: 

1. **Independent Regulatory Framework**: Australia has established independent regulatory bodies such as the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to oversee media regulation and compliance. Papua New Guinea can learn the importance of having independent regulatory bodies to ensure transparency, accountability, and impartiality in media governance. 

2. **Media Diversity and Pluralism**: Australia promotes media diversity and pluralism through policies that support a range of media outlets and content providers. Papua New Guinea can learn from Australia's efforts to foster a diverse media landscape, including public broadcasters, commercial media, community media, and online platforms. 

3. **Media Literacy Initiatives**: Australia has implemented media literacy programs to educate citizens on critical thinking, digital literacy, and responsible media consumption. Papua New Guinea can benefit from incorporating media literacy initiatives into its policy framework to empower citizens with the skills to navigate the media landscape effectively. 

4. **Support for Public Broadcasting**: Australia supports public broadcasting through entities like the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS). Papua New Guinea can learn from Australia's commitment to public broadcasting as a means to provide independent and diverse content for the public interest. 

5. **Digital Innovation and Technology**: Australia embraces digital innovation and technology in the media sector, promoting online content delivery, digital platforms, and multimedia storytelling. Papua New Guinea can explore strategies to leverage digital technologies for content creation, distribution, and audience engagement. 

6. **Ethical Journalism Standards**: Australia upholds ethical journalism standards through industry codes of practice and self-regulatory mechanisms. Papua New Guinea can adopt similar approaches to promote responsible reporting, journalistic integrity, and accountability within the media industry. 

7. **Community Engagement**: Australia emphasises community engagement in media policy development and decision-making processes. Papua New Guinea can learn from Australia's consulting practices with stakeholders, including community groups, industry representatives, and media professionals, to ensure inclusive and participatory media governance. 

By studying and drawing insights from Australia's media policy framework, Papua New Guinea can enhance its own media development initiatives, strengthen regulatory mechanisms, promote media diversity, prioritise media literacy, embrace digital innovation, uphold ethical standards, and engage with communities effectively to build a vibrant and inclusive media ecosystem that serves the public interest. 

Another comparison with New Zealand: If this policy document is compared with New Zealand's media policy, what could Papua New Guinea learn from it? 

When comparing the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea with New Zealand's media policy framework, there are several key areas that Papua New Guinea could learn from New Zealand's approach to media regulation and development. Here are some aspects that Papua New Guinea could consider learning from New Zealand's media policy: 

1. **Public Broadcasting Model**: New Zealand has a robust public broadcasting model with entities like Radio New Zealand (RNZ) and Television New Zealand (TVNZ) that provide independent and diverse content for the public interest. Papua New Guinea could learn from New Zealand's support for public broadcasting to promote quality journalism, cultural representation, and public service broadcasting. 

2. **Media Funding and Support**: New Zealand provides funding and support for media initiatives through organisations like NZ On Air, which funds local content across various platforms. Papua New Guinea could learn from New Zealand's mechanisms for supporting local content production, fostering creativity, and promoting diverse voices in the media industry. 

3. **Media Literacy and Education**: New Zealand emphasises media literacy and education initiatives to empower citizens with the skills to engage with media content and navigate digital platforms critically. Papua New Guinea could benefit from incorporating media literacy programs into its policy framework to enhance digital literacy, critical thinking, and responsible media consumption among the population. 

4. **Regulatory Independence**: New Zealand has independent regulatory bodies like the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) and the Media Council to oversee media regulation and uphold ethical standards. Papua New Guinea could learn from New Zealand's commitment to regulatory independence, transparency, and accountability in media governance. 

5. **Community Media and Diversity**: New Zealand supports community media and diversity in the media landscape through initiatives that promote local content, multicultural representation, and indigenous perspectives. Papua New Guinea could learn from New Zealand's efforts to foster a diverse and inclusive media environment that reflects the country's cultural richness and societal diversity. 

6. **Digital Innovation and Convergence**: New Zealand embraces digital innovation and media convergence, encouraging the development of online platforms, digital content creation, and multimedia storytelling. Papua New Guinea could explore strategies to leverage digital technologies for content distribution, audience engagement, and innovation in the media sector. 

7. **Transparency and Accountability**: New Zealand prioritises transparency and accountability in media policy development and decision-making processes, involving stakeholders, industry representatives, and the public in consultations and regulatory discussions. Papua New Guinea could learn from New Zealand's inclusive governance practices and stakeholder engagement to ensure a participatory and responsive media regulatory framework. 

By studying and drawing insights from New Zealand's media policy framework, Papua New Guinea could enhance its own media development initiatives, strengthen regulatory mechanisms, promote public broadcasting, support local content production, prioritise media literacy, embrace digital innovation, foster diversity, and uphold ethical standards in the media industry. 

Could this policy document be used to assist universities that teach journalism or media and communication courses to align their courses to be taught? 

Yes, the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea is a valuable resource to assist universities that teach journalism or media and communication in aligning their courses to be taught. Here are some ways in which this policy document can be used to guide universities in curriculum development and course alignment: 

1. **Media Professional Development**: The policy emphasises the importance of media professional development for quality, content, and responsibility. Universities can align their journalism and media courses to focus on developing students' skills in responsible reporting, ethical journalism practices, and media literacy. 

2. **Training and Capacity Building**: The policy highlights the significance of training and capacity building for media professionals. Universities can incorporate practical training programs, workshops, and industry placements to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the media industry. 

3. **Media Literacy Programs**: The policy stresses the importance of media literacy programs. Universities can integrate media literacy components into their courses to educate students on critical thinking, digital literacy, and responsible media consumption. 

4. **Support for Female Inclusion**: The policy promotes female inclusion in the media industry. Universities can ensure gender diversity in their journalism and media programs, offering opportunities and support for female students to excel in the field. 

5. **Ethical Journalism Standards**: The policy recognises the importance of ethical journalism standards. Universities can emphasise the principles of ethical reporting, fact-checking, and accountability in their journalism courses to instil a strong foundation of journalistic integrity in students. 

6. **Content Diversity**: The policy acknowledges the importance of content diversity and quality news delivery. Universities can design courses that cover a wide range of topics, including global issues, minority rights, cultural diversity, and local content production, to prepare students for a diverse media landscape. 

7. **Digital Media Skills**: The policy highlights the need for specialised skills in digital media. Universities can incorporate modules on digital media production, social media management, multimedia storytelling, and online journalism to equip students with the latest tools and techniques in digital communication. 

By leveraging the guidelines and priorities outlined in the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea, universities teaching journalism or media and communication can align their courses to meet industry needs, foster professional development, promote media literacy, uphold ethical standards, and prepare students for a dynamic and evolving media landscape. 

Could a database system be designed to monitor all media content published daily by media houses? This information could then inform policymakers on issues affecting the country. 

Designing a database system to monitor all media content published daily by media houses can be valuable for informing policymakers on issues affecting the country. Here are some key considerations and benefits of implementing such a system: 

1. **Data Collection and Aggregation**: The database system can collect and aggregate media content from various sources, including newspapers, websites, TV channels, and social media platforms. This comprehensive data collection allows a holistic view of the media landscape and the covered issues. 

2. **Content Analysis and Classification**: The system can analyse and classify media content based on topics, themes, sentiments, and key issues. This categorisation helps identify trends, patterns, and emerging issues in the media coverage. 

3. **Real-time Monitoring**: The system can provide real-time monitoring of media content, allowing policymakers to stay updated on the latest news, developments, and public discourse. This timely information enables quick responses to emerging issues and crises. 

4. **Data Visualization**: The system can generate visualisations, reports, and dashboards to present data clearly and concisely. Visual representations of media content trends and analysis facilitate decision-making and policy formulation for policymakers. 

5. **Issue Identification and Prioritization**: By monitoring media content, the system can help identify key issues, public concerns, and policy priorities. Policymakers can use this information to focus on addressing pressing issues and responding to public needs. 

6. **Policy Impact Assessment**: The database system can track the coverage and impact of policies, initiatives, and government actions in the media. This assessment helps policymakers evaluate the effectiveness of their policies and communication strategies. 

7. **Early Warning System**: The system can serve as an early warning system for potential crises, controversies, or public sentiments that may require immediate attention from policymakers. Early detection of issues allows for proactive measures to be taken. 

8. **Feedback Mechanism**: Policymakers can use the database system to gather public feedback, opinions, and reactions as reflected in the media content. This feedback loop informs policy decisions, communication strategies, and public engagement efforts. 

A database system designed to monitor media content can be a powerful tool for policymakers to stay informed, analyse trends, identify priorities, assess policy impact, and effectively engage with public discourse. By leveraging data-driven insights from media monitoring, policymakers can make informed decisions, address public concerns, and shape policies responsive to the country's needs. 

Do you know if there is any mechanism to address misinformation and disinformation issues according to the policy? 

 Yes, according to the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea, there is a recognition of the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation in the media landscape, particularly in the digital age. The policy acknowledges that ensuring credibility is crucial for media organisations. While the document does not provide specific details on mechanisms to address misinformation and disinformation, it emphasises the importance of responsible reporting, media literacy programs, and promoting ethical journalism practices. 

To effectively address misinformation and disinformation issues, the policy may consider implementing the following mechanisms: 

1. **Media Literacy Programs**: Developing and implementing media literacy programs to educate the public on critically evaluating information, identifying misinformation, and verifying sources before sharing or believing content. 

2. **Fact-Checking Initiatives**: Supporting fact-checking organisations or initiatives that can verify the accuracy of information circulating in the media and online platforms. 

3. **Transparency and Accountability**: Encouraging media organisations to be transparent about their sources, methods of reporting, and corrections policies to build trust with the audience. 

4. **Collaboration with Tech Platforms**: Collaborating with technology companies and social media platforms to combat the spread of misinformation through content moderation, fact-checking partnerships, and algorithmic adjustments. 

5. **Public Awareness Campaigns**: Launching public awareness campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of misinformation, the importance of critical thinking, and the impact of sharing false information. 

6. **Regulatory Frameworks**: Developing regulatory frameworks that address disseminating false information while safeguarding freedom of expression and press freedom. 

7. **Capacity Building**: Training and capacity-building programs for journalists and media professionals on ethical reporting practices, fact-checking techniques, and digital verification tools. 

By incorporating these mechanisms into implementing the National Media Development Policy, Papua New Guinea can strengthen its efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation, promote media credibility, and foster a more informed and resilient society. 

 

What are some important points the document failed to highlight? 

While the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea covers a wide range of important aspects related to media development, some points could be further emphasised or addressed in the document. Here are some key areas that the document may have failed to highlight: 

1. **Media Sustainability**: The document could provide more detailed strategies and recommendations for ensuring the long-term sustainability of media organisations in Papua New Guinea. This could include discussions on funding mechanisms, business models, and support systems for independent media outlets. 

2. **Media Pluralism**: While the document mentions media diversity and inclusivity, it could delve deeper into promoting media pluralism, ensuring various voices, perspectives, and opinions are represented in the media landscape. 

3. **Media Literacy Education**: While the document touches on the need for media literacy programs, it could elaborate on the importance of integrating media literacy education into formal school curricula and community outreach initiatives to empower citizens to engage with media content critically. 

4. **Data Privacy and Protection**: Given the increasing use of digital media and data-driven journalism, the document could address data privacy, protection of personal information, and ethical considerations in data collection and analysis by media organisations. 

5. **Community Media Development**: The document could highlight the role of community media outlets in promoting local voices, cultural diversity, and grassroots participation in media production. Strategies for supporting and strengthening community media initiatives could be further emphasised. 

6. **Media Regulation and Self-Regulation**: While the document mentions media self-regulation, it could provide more guidance on establishing effective regulatory frameworks that balance freedom of expression with ethical standards and accountability in the media industry. 

7. **Digital Security and Press Freedom**: Given the risks faced by journalists and media professionals, the document could address the importance of digital security training, protection of journalists' rights, and safeguarding press freedom in the face of online threats and censorship. 

8. **Media Collaboration and Partnerships**: The document could underscore the value of fostering collaboration and partnerships between media organisations, civil society groups, government agencies, and international stakeholders to strengthen the media sector and promote information sharing. 

By further addressing these points and incorporating additional considerations into the National Media Development Policy, Papua New Guinea can enhance its efforts to create a vibrant, diverse, and responsible media ecosystem that serves the interests of its citizens and contributes to democratic governance and societal development. 

 

***END*** 

 Here are some references and links you might be interested in. Note that some of these links and references support the National Media Development Policy for Papua New Guinea: 

 

1. **Pacific Islands News Association (PINA)**: 

   - Website: http://www.pina.com.fj 

   - PINA has advocated for versatile partnerships to promote freedom of expression and information, which aligns with the goals of the media policy. 

 

2. **United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)**: 

   - Website: [UNESCO Communication and Information Sector](https://en.unesco.org/themes/communication-information) 

   - UNESCO provides resources and guidelines on media development, freedom of expression, and media literacy, which are relevant to the objectives of the media policy. 

 

3. **Papua New Guinea Media Council**: 

   - The PNG Media Council promotes ethical journalism and advocates for media freedom and responsible reporting. 

 

4. **Government of Papua New Guinea Official Website**: 

   - Website: https://pmnec.gov.pg 

   - The official government website may provide updates, announcements, and documents related to media policies and initiatives in Papua New Guinea. 

 

5. **International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)**: 

   - Website: https://www.ifj.org 

   - The IFJ promotes press freedom, journalists' rights, and media safety globally, which can support the media freedom and safety principles highlighted in the policy. 

 

6. **Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) **: 

   - Website: https://www.mdif.org 

   - MDIF provides resources and support for independent media organisations, including training, funding, and capacity-building initiatives that align with media sustainability and development goals. 

 

7. **Global Media Monitoring Project (GMMP)**: 

   - Website: https://whomakesthenews.org 

   - The GMMP conducts research on gender representation in the media, which could inform efforts to promote gender equality and diversity in the media sector as outlined in the policy. 

 

These references and links can provide additional insights, best practices, and resources to support implementing and monitoring the National Media Development Policy in Papua New Guinea. By leveraging external expertise, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing platforms, Papua New Guinea can strengthen its media ecosystem and advance its goals of promoting media freedom, diversity, and responsible journalism.