“Media is part of democracy,” Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said on Monday at the opening of the World Press Freedom Day and Journalists Association of Samoa’s (JAWS) 50th anniversary celebration.

He made the remarks before joining Australian High Commissioner to Samoa Will Robinson to cut the ribbon and officially launch the JAWS Strategy Plan 2026-2031.

Speaking towards the end of the event, Laaulialemalietoa acknowledged the media's role in Samoa’s democracy.

“Media is part of democracy, and you have a role to play,” he said.

He also said he did not "have much to say" and that the “comprehensive speeches” delivered earlier in the programme had highlighted the importance of World Press Freedom Day and the work of journalists.

Australian High Commissioner to Samoa Will Robinson also acknowledged the media's role in his official address.

“A free press is not merely a privilege; it is an essential public service. It acts like a mirror of society, it relates to diverse voices, verifies facts and builds the trust necessary for communities to thrive and survive,” he said.

“What is journalism if not storytelling? And you play such a crucial role as custodians of those stories. It is a remarkable testimony to your contribution to your country.”

According to the official programme, the week-long celebration continues on Tuesday with school competitions, including poem, essay and speech presentations, followed by an awards and certificates ceremony at Tanoa Tusitala Hotel.

The Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS) digital training, which started on Monday, will also continue with one-on-one sessions at the JAWS office at the ABM Building in Saleufi.

On Wednesday, a Media Watch panel discussion will be held at the National University of Samoa (NUS) with selected guests.

Thursday’s programme will focus on strengthening women in media in Samoa at the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel.

The celebrations will conclude on Friday with the JAWS 50th Anniversary Commemoration at Taumesina Island Resort from 10 am to 5 pm, followed by a cocktail event at Tanoa Tusitala Hotel at 6.30 pm.

Meanwhile, in the latest Press Freedom Ranking, Samoa was placed 59th out of 180 countries. In 2025, Samoa was placed 44th.