CBU head bemoans lack of access to information laws

As Barbados marks World Press Freedom Day today, president of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) Anthony Greene says the country must move to enact longdiscussed freedom of information legislation, pointing to what he described as a critical gap in the national governance framework.

Greene, in a statement issued to coincide with the observance, said while Barbados continues to benefit from a strong democratic tradition and a generally free media environment, the absence of a comprehensive legal structure guaranteeing the public’s right to information remains unresolved.

“As we mark World Press Freedom Day, we are reminded that Press freedom is not only a global concern, but a national responsibility,” he said, adding that the issue must be examined within the Barbadian context.

He noted that long-running discussions on access to information laws have not yet resulted in implementation, leaving Barbados behind several Caribbean territories that have already established formal legislative frameworks.

“One of those gaps is the absence of comprehensive access to information legislation,” he said. “Despite previous commitments, Barbados still lags behind many of its Caribbean neighbours in establishing a formal legal framework that guarantees citizens’ right to information.

“That is not a small issue. It goes to the heart of transparency, accountability and public trust,” he added.

Greene, who is also General Manager of Starcom Network Inc., acknowledged that policy discussions had often centred on the need to modernise data governance systems before introducing such legislation, but said that approach should no longer delay progress.

“There have been arguments that the country must first modernise its data governance framework before introducing such legislation. While that is an important consideration, it should no longer be a basis for continued delay.

“Strengthening data systems and advancing access to information are not mutually exclusive, but must proceed together if we are serious about transparency in a modern, digital society.”

The CBU president also addressed the broader role of the media within the democratic process, noting that structural support for journalism remained essential. “At the same time, we must reaffirm the critical role of an independent media in sustaining a strong democracy.”

He pointed to shifts in communication practices, including the growing use of direct messaging by institutions and officials, but said these developments do not replace the functions performed by professional journalism.

“The work of the media to question, verify, provide context and hold power to account, must never be discounted,” he stressed.

Greene said the current information environment, shaped by rapid digital dissemination and increased volumes of unverified content, placed additional demands on both media practitioners and public institutions.

“At a time when misinformation is rising and media systems are under increasing strain, access to timely and accurate public information is more critical than ever,” he said.

He added that ensuring such access was not only a matter of principle, but also required systems which facilitate the consistent flow of reliable information to journalists and the public.

“Press freedom must be supported not only by principle, but by practical measures that enable journalists to do their work effectively and responsibly.”

Greene said Press freedom should be understood as one that extended beyond media organisations, encompassing the rights of citizens to be informed.

“Ultimately, Press freedom is about the public’s right to know. Strengthening that right in Barbados will require both the continued protection of media independence and meaningful progress on long-promised reforms that empower citizens and reinforce trust in our institutions.”

World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following a recommendation by UNESCO. It is observed annually on May 3 to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the Press, to remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression, and to honour journalists who have faced threats or lost their lives in the line of duty. (CLM)

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