New Constitution Project: Haitian Journalists Want to Influence the Debate

PETON-VILLE.— Journalists gathered last weekend at the initiative of SOS Journalistes, to discuss the necessity of a new constitution and the strict application of ethical and deontological rules governing the responsible exercise of press freedom.

These meetings allowed journalists and media representatives to share their opinions on the advisability of adopting a new constitution. The Secretary-General of SOS Journalistes, Joseph Guyler C. Delva, supports any initiative aimed at providing the country with a new constitution. “Now that there is a transitional government in place, there is no parliament, it is the ideal moment for the adoption of a new constitution,” Delva stated.

The Secretary-General of SOS Journalistes calls on stakeholders to transcend. In his opinion, there are people, politicians, and opponents who want to boycott the constitutional change process simply because they have a political problem with the CPT.

“Personally, I have had many problems with certain decisions made by the authorities. But if they start to correct course, especially concerning press freedom, I will change my position…,” Delva emphasized.

Discussions also focused on the necessity of providing the press sector with an Ethics Commission that can ensure strict adherence to deontological and ethical rules. This commission will ensure that journalistic work is standardized and conforms to the rules of the profession.

Many experienced and well-known journalists from the sector participated in the meetings with great enthusiasm, reported the head of SOS Journalistes. The organization plans a vast campaign to promote ethical values attached to the exercise of the profession in accordance with the World Charter of Journalistic Ethics.

This gathering should mark a new turning point in the self-regulation process for Haitian journalists and other media professionals, the Secretary-General of SOS Journalistes rejoiced.

Jean Mapou