For better journalism

Jordan Press Association journalists voted on Friday to elect their president and council members.

Out of more than 1,000 journalists registered with the association, only 715 voted; of the rest, some did not vote because they had not paid their dues to the association, others because they decided differently.

The elections period usually witnesses a flurry of movement among the otherwise placid journalists.

Unfortunately, the “campaign” run by independent candidates lacks convincing platforms and arguments and is based, like most other things in the country, on friendship and other narrow ties.

The association has yet to show some teeth and see blocs with common goals coalescing in a drive to effect change and better the lot of journalists.

Issues of real concern for the profession could have been, for example, programmes to promote and protect freedom of the press, and to enhance the professional skills of journalists through constant training and exchange of experience with fellow journalists, in the country and abroad.

While better living conditions will always be a demand — of media and other workers — journalists should be aware of the fact that the outcome of their work is a powerful tool that shapes opinion and policy and, as such, they should struggle for impartiality in their pursuit of a story.

They should work to serve the causes of democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights, to serve the citizens and forge unity in the country.

Journalists play a pivotal role in the promotion of political, economic and social justice, a challenging role that requires professionalism, credibility and objectivity.

Elections over, perhaps the re-elected president and the members of the council can get down to business now and think of ways to help the cause of journalism and, in the process, serve the country and its people.

Those who did not make it should work to form blocs with convincing platforms not only for future elections, but also to lobby the current board and work for better journalism in the country.