Dili, 25 April 2026 (Media Democracia) – Timor-Leste Press Council Holds Meeting with Journalists and Media Owners to Socialize Second Amendment to Regulation No. 2/21 of March 17, Regarding the Awarding of Prizes to Journalists by the Press Council
The Executive Director of the Press Council, António Dias, said this socialization is especially important for the assembly regulation.
“We started awarding this Prize from 2018 onwards, the Press Council noted that media applications weren’t very strong, so we made some changes that we think can stimulate or remove barriers to the prize, so that it can improve even more.” the Executive Director said through his remarks at the meeting with journalists this Wednesday (22/04).
He said the annual prize that the Press Council offers each year looks at the media or journalist’s usefulness it’s not just about receiving the prize, but about showing quality.
“We give this prize because of its usefulness, not just for receiving the prize itself, but to truly show the quality of the prize winner and dignity, the regularity of a winning media outlet’s work. That’s why our meeting is very important.” he explained.
Therefore, António Dias has hope that journalists working in media institutions can compete so that journalists’ work can be dignified.
“We’re trying in every way, but there are also opportunities where we dignify and appreciate their journalistic works that have an impact on Timor-Leste society in their work and contribute to the dynamics of democracy, so with that, I preside over this meeting for you, full of results, so that this regulation can be useful for this year’s prize application process.” he added.
Council Member Joaquim de Fátima Coutinho stated that the meeting’s objective is to look at the realistic products that have been applied by the Press Council. In past years, the policy was for journalists and media to submit products.
“In our mandate we changed this policy. It’s not just you who come to submit, but we ourselves will carry out evaluations or go down to media institutions to look at your products and how to see which ones have quality. After that we can evaluate and finally go into the process to be submitted.” Council Member Joaquim told journalists after the meeting.
Joaquim affirmed that although in their mandate they face many problems regarding press freedom and freedom of expression, they have hope to contribute to our country, especially through training.
Report By: Estefánia Cardoso
Photo By: Estefánia Cardoso