Secretary-General to address CBA Conference in the Bahamas

23 January 2008

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon will address the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association's Conference in Nassau, Bahamas, on 25 January

He will speak on ‘Media and Good Governance’, which will touch on the important role the media plays in promoting good governance, human rights and freedom of expression.

Speaking ahead of his visit, the Secretary-General said: “A free and independent media is critical for democracy to flourish. A vibrant media is the reflection of a vibrant democracy. Media that are able to work freely in the dissemination of information will benefit everyone – from individuals to governments and corporations – because they are better placed in making informed decisions.”

Mr McKinnon stressed that in our globalised world, access to information is key to success as those who are armed with knowledge can act decisively to their advantage. Those without access to information – that is accurate and timely – will lose out on opportunities.

“Effective and responsible media can shine a light on truth or deceit so that wisdom can prevail. Media that are censored or controlled can never do a good job of informing or educating the public to their benefit. The public will remain in the dark when their right to information is curtailed and their freedom of expression is muzzled.”

The conference’s theme is ‘Empowering the People’.

While in the Bahamas, the Secretary-General will also call on Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham to discuss Commonwealth issues.