Tonga will mark World Press Freedom Day 2025 with a panel on artificial intelligence’s impact on journalism.
The Media Association of Tonga (MAT) is organising a luncheon panel discussion this Friday, May 2nd, at Queen Salote Memorial Hall in Nuku’alofa. The event, themed “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” aligns with UNESCO’s global focus for this year’s World Press Freedom Day on 3 May.
Panelists include ‘Esau Tupou from Tonga CERT, Tupou Vainikolo of the Attorney General’s Office, Dr Sione Vikilani from the Legislative Assembly, and Selu Kauvaka representing Tonga Women in ICT. The discussion will explore how AI technologies are reshaping media practices, ethical standards, and press freedom in the Pacific.
The panel is part of the Tonga ICT Expo, hosted by TWICT, with MAT contributing a booth to showcase local media materials.
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on 3 May, serves as a reminder of the importance of a free press and honours journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
In Tonga, while journalists generally operate without fear of physical harm, economic pressures and self-censorship remain challenges. One of MAT’s key role is in advocating for press freedom and supporting media professionals in the country.
Tonga currently lacks a Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, making government information access difficult. While the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, it does not legally compel officials to disclose assets or income, nor is there legislation ensuring public access to government records.
The event is open to the public, offering an opportunity for community members to engage with pressing issues at the intersection of emerging technologies and media freedom.
