Government Committed to Full Media Freedom

Journalists Must Voice Their Own Rights: Press Secretary By Sheikh Arif (Dhaka Bureau) Essential institutional and legal reforms are needed to ensure the professional and financial security of working journalists in Bangladesh, while maintaining a balance between media freedom and responsibility, according to key figures at a national media forum. Speaking as the chief guest at the ‘Meet the Reporters’ event hosted by the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) on Thursday, A.A.M. Saleh Shibly, Press Secretary to the Prime Minister, stated that journalists themselves must actively speak up to secure their own rights and interests. He reaffirmed that while the government fully supports media freedom, freedom should not be equated with arbitrariness or lack of accountability. Media Ownership and Financial Security Addressing financial vulnerability in the press, the Press Secretary emphasized the need to scrutinize whether media owners possess the actual capacity to run publications and pay employee salaries regularly. He urged that both the professional and economic security of journalists be treated with utmost priority. In light of the digital era’s challenges, he urged news organizations to establish internal, systematic fact-checking mechanisms to combat fake news and misinformation. He also advised the public to remain vigilant against misleading content from unregistered online portals. Legal Protections and Constitutional Recognition During the discussion, DRU President Abu Saleh Akon highlighted the deep economic and moral instability facing media workers today, noting that many journalists struggle even to afford their children’s education. He stressed that bringing journalism under a proper legal and structural framework would enhance professional security and foster objective reporting. DRU General Secretary Mynul Hasan Sohel called for the official inclusion of the press as the ‘Fourth Estate’ within the national constitution. He advocated for dedicated facilities such as specialized schools, healthcare institutions, and a standard two-day weekend for journalists- mirroring benefits provided to other key professions. Without ensuring work-life balance and social protections, he warned, independent journalism will face severe threats. Economic Resilience and International Engagement Reflecting on the broader economic landscape, the Press Secretary noted that the government is navigating past administrative weaknesses and global conflicts to create a safe, stable environment for foreign investment. He also highlighted the Prime Minister’s upcoming participation in the UN General Assembly, where the leader will address global figures on Bangladesh’s key priorities. The event was attended by DRU executive committee members and journalists representing various national and international outlets, underscoring a shared commitment to building a safe, independent, and responsible media landscape. Sheikh Arif: Panel Editor, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.

Yeasmin Taskina