Small and Unique Yet Overlooked:Dilemma of Media Coverage of Fiji on Global Stage: Mainstream Vs AlternativeMedia

Abstract

The image of a particular country in the eyes of the people at the international level depends largely on
the portrayal of that country in the mass media. Introduction of new information technologies and
advances in communication has greatly enhanced the scope of international communication moving
beyond government-to-government and including business-to-business and people-to people
interactions at a global level. The messages conveyed by news media organizations of a particular
country not only inform its citizens about the significant events and issues in their localities, but also
shape their understanding and opinion of significant events and issues in the foreign countries.
Shaping people’s global context through various political, economic, social, and cultural factors,
international media such as the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), The Cable News Network
(CNN), Common Dreams andthe Real News Network have expanded their coverage over the years by
including coverage of countries various other regions.
The aim of this paper is to analyze how Fiji’s national image is represented by international
mainstream media and independent media with specific focus on BBC News website, The Cable News
Network (CNN), Common Dreams and the Real News Network website coverage of Fiji in the last 12
months that is from July, 2022 to June, 2023. The purpose of choosing the last 12 months is to allow a
detailed analysis and because Fiji held its 2022 general elections and representatives from various
media organizations were present in the country for its coverage. The focus of this paper will also be
towards examining the degree to which news about Fiji was published on BBC News (a mainstream
media) and The Real News Network (an independent, non-profit news organization). The paper will
also provide a comparative analysis of the coverage by both the media (mainstream and alternative).