Today is World Press Freedom Day, prompting the head of the Pacific Islands News Association to remind leaders of the importance of unhindered access to information.
Kora Nou Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Koro Vakauta
Today's theme is the 'Role of Media in Elections and Democracy'.
The association's Kora Nou said the media played a crucial role in shaping a healthy democracy.
He said it makes us aware of social, political and economic activities happening each day, and also exposes corruption.
Mr Nou said democracy without a free, neutral and active media is meaningless.