[🇧🇩] Press Freedom in Bangladesh

[Saif]

Proper reforms will strengthen the media

The changes proposed by the Media Reform Commission will address journalist vulnerabilities.

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Proper reforms will strengthen the media
Proposed changes by media commission to address journalist vulnerabilities

VISUAL: STAR

We welcome the long-overdue official conversation on legislating protection for journalists in Bangladesh. The chief of the Media Reform Commission recently announced plans to recommend a new law to safeguard journalists, as well as amending 32 existing laws that hinder press freedom. Such initiatives are critical if we want a media industry that can truly serve as the fourth pillar of democracy, holding those in power accountable.

At a recent dialogue in Dhaka, the commission chief also underscored the importance of financial security for journalists, advocating for a minimum floor wage applicable nationwide. This statement coincides with the unveiling of findings from a Broadcast Journalist Center (BJC) survey that revealed that over half of the country's TV channels are failing to pay their employees on time, while at least 20 percent owe workers several months' salaries. The survey also found that less than 25 percent of channels provide provident funds, and only 10 percent offer gratuities. Similar challenges plague many print outlets as well. Alarmingly, especially outside Dhaka, journalists often have to juggle multiple roles—as reporters, ad procurers, and salespeople—leaving them vulnerable to corruption and exploitation.

Physical security remains another major concern. Reports of journalists facing attacks—sometimes fatal—while pursuing their work are far too frequent. We cannot forget the tragic death of Golam Rabbani Nadeem, district correspondent of Banglanews24.com and Ekattor TV, who was beaten to death after reporting on a local upazila parishad chairman's activities in Jamalpur. Equally haunting is the unresolved case of journalist couple Sagar Sarowar and Meherun Runi, who were murdered in their home 12 years ago, with justice still eluding their families.

In addition to these risks, journalists also face job insecurity. According to the BJC survey, at least 150 TV journalists lost their jobs this year alone. Expecting journalists to uphold high standards under such conditions is not only unrealistic, but also inhumane. This is why we applaud the Media Reform Commission's initiative to address these systemic issues. Reforms must ensure that the press is free from government interference and undue influence from powerful entities. Introducing a uniform code of conduct, aligned with international best practices, could help promote ethical and high-quality journalism.

Such measures are crucial to fostering a media landscape capable of holding power to account. We eagerly await substantive reforms that will enable journalists to thrive professionally and contribute to a more transparent, accountable society. Independent, fact-based journalism benefits everyone—and its sustainability depends on the authorities' commitment to ensuring journalists' well-being.​

 

[Saif]

Four journos of a newspaper injured in attack

Four journalists, including the editor and managing editor of the Janabani newspaper, were injured in an attack by criminals near their office in the capital's Banglamotor area yesterday afternoon.

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Four journos of a newspaper injured in attack

Four journalists, including the editor and managing editor of the Janabani newspaper, were injured in an attack by criminals near their office in the capital's Banglamotor area yesterday afternoon.

The incident took place around 4:30pm when the journalists were on their way to the office.

The injured include Shafiqul Islam, editor and publisher of Janabani, Managing Editor Raju Ahmed Shah, Special Correspondent Bashir Hossain Khan, and online editor Ataur Hossain.

According to Bashir Hossain, a group of 20-22 men ambushed them.

"At first, we could not comprehend the situation. It appeared to be a pre-planned attack. We did not recognise any of them," he said.

He further mentioned that earlier a person named Ramzan had come to the Janabani office and threatened the staff.

The attackers reportedly first inquired about their names before launching the assault. "The way they came at us suggested that someone had directed them to attack us," Bashir added.

The journalists were taken to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital around 6:00pm. They received treatment for their injuries and were later discharged.​

 

[Saif]

Suspension of accreditation cards a threat to free press

Says it poses threat, obstacle to independent journalism

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Suspension of accreditation cards a threat to free press
Says Editors’ Council

The Editors' Council, in a statement yesterday, strongly condemned the suspension of journalists' accreditation cards and access to the Secretariat, stating that such an order poses a threat and obstacle to independent journalism.

On Friday, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order through a press release, which stated that the decision was made in the wake of security concerns arising from a fire incident at the Secretariat.

The order said that journalists' access to the Secretariat via accreditation cards has been suspended until further notice.

The next day, the Chief Adviser's Press Wing expressed regret over the restriction of journalists' access. In a statement, it said that, considering the security of the Secretariat, the administrative hub, journalists' entry using the current accreditation cards had been limited along with all other non-government passes.

The government also announced plans to review the existing press accreditation cards soon, it added.

Yesterday, a press note from the Department of Information stated that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is reassessing the accreditation cards.

The note further mentioned that permanent and temporary accreditation cards/passes will be reissued soon, and temporary passes for journalists will be provided starting today.

While welcoming the initiative to reassess and review the accreditation cards, the Editors' Council said that there is room for collaboration, if necessary, to identify unprofessional journalists.

However, it emphasised that imposing a blanket restriction on journalists' access is perceived globally as an attack on independent journalism, the statement said.

"Such tendencies were also evident during the fascist rule of the Awami League. When financial irregularities were rampant, journalists' access to regulatory institutions like Bangladesh Bank was restricted. During that time, journalists' stance on such activities was clear and unequivocal, as seen during the pre-uprising era leading to the downfall of the Sheikh Hasina government on August 5," the statement said.

The statement further added that after the interim government took office, demands arose for the reform or repeal of the Cyber Security Act.

On November 7, the interim government made a policy decision to repeal the act, and subsequently, on December 24, the advisory council of the interim government approved the draft of the Cyber Protection Ordinance, 2024.

"The new ordinance retains the same powers for the police as before, particularly outlined in Sections 35 and 36. Notably, the repealed Cyber Security Act also granted similar powers to the police, which was one of the major concerns raised by the Editors' Council regarding the misuse of police authority under the law," the statement read.

The Editors' Council said that the unwarranted cancellation of journalists' accreditation cards and access to the Secretariat is unjustified.

Moreover, it noted that the unilateral adoption of the ordinance without consultation with relevant stakeholders is disappointing and reflects an authoritarian mindset.

"Alongside protesting the cancellation of access, the council called for appropriate steps to address the concerns raised about the provisions in the draft Cyber Protection Ordinance, 2024, based on the opinions of all relevant stakeholders," it stated.​

 

[Saif]

CA’s Press Wing sits with journalist groups

The Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Monday held a meeting with the leaders of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists, Dhaka Union of Journalists, Dhaka Reporters’ Unity and Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF). “We told them we regret the inconvenience caused by the decis

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

CA’s Press Wing sits with journalist groups
UNB
Published :
Dec 30, 2024 20:53
Updated :
Dec 30, 2024 20:53

The Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Monday held a meeting with the leaders of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists, Dhaka Union of Journalists, Dhaka Reporters’ Unity and Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF).

“We told them we regret the inconvenience caused by the decision to limit entry of journalists at the Secretariat,” Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said after the meeting.

They appreciated the government’s decision to quickly issue temporary entry passes to more than 200 journalists, he said.

“We’ve assured them the government would come up with more journalist-friendly and efficient accreditation cards for journalists,” Alam said.

No journalists will be affected by the new move, he said.

Leaders of all four groups who joined the meeting agreed to submit their proposals to improve accreditation cards and entry system for the Secretariat, Alam said.

“We believe in freedom of press and free flow of information. We also won’t compromise an inch on the question of national security,” Alam said.​

 

[Saif]

Challenges to media freedom in post-Hasina Bangladesh

Post-uprising media changes in Bangladesh face setbacks amid ongoing challenges.

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Challenges to media freedom in post-Hasina Bangladesh

FILE VISUAL: ANWAR SOHEL

After the student-led mass uprising in July-August 2024, a lot of expectations emerged within society, which was normal. The media sector is no exception. During Sheikh Hasina's 15-plus years of hybrid regime, standard journalism practices declined drastically due to certain actions of a group of pro-Awami League journalists. It would be more appropriate to call them activists of the regime. The press wing of the ousted prime minister and a particular intelligence branch exerted a kind of pressure on our media outlets. That's why, after the Awami League's fall in August, people expected major changes in this sector. However, these expectations, under the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, have already experienced setbacks for many reasons. It is unfortunate that professional journalists who played a pivotal role in ousting Hasina are now facing unfortunate situations.

After the massive fire at the secretariat on December 26, another controversial decision related to journalism was made. Due to security concerns, the interim government suspended accreditation cards for journalists, including visitor and other passes. Barring others from the secretariat may be necessary, but restricting journalists from performing their daily duties is not acceptable. Although the press wing of the chief adviser clarified the issue and a temporary pass-issuance process was put in place, this decision ultimately did not bode well for media freedom. The Editors' Council and other journalists'-rights-based organisations issued statements saying that such decisions are a threat and an obstacle to independent journalism. By observing the situation closely, I can assume that this particular decision did not help journalism at all. However, I strongly agree with the authorities that many unprofessional journalists are holding accreditation cards for purposes other than journalism. These should be cancelled as early as possible.

Another burning and unfortunate issue is the firing of five senior journalists from Somoy TV. No doubt, this media outlet was one of the notorious propaganda machines of Sheikh Hasina. It systematically spread the regime's disinformation. On the other hand, this channel also targeted individuals who were critical of the ousted fascist regime. That said, firing journalists through "mob justice" is not acceptable. The information ministry and the press wing of the chief adviser failed to address this issue. This was undoubtedly done through the misconduct of student leaders. The press wing and the government should have taken proper action against it, but they did nothing. It has already become an international issue, which does not align with the reputation of Prof Yunus at all.

Yes, we are well aware that different media outlets under Sheikh Hasina became almost party propaganda cells. However, after her fall, intervening in TV channels and newspapers is not acceptable either. Alongside the spin doctors of these outlets, many professional journalists have also lost their jobs in recent months. These decisions were made under pressure and without following due process. A journalist of ATN Bangla is one of them; as far as I know, he had supported the students' movement. Yet, the ATN Bangla authorities fired him. The government did nothing in these journalists' aid. At the very least, it could have issued a strong statement against this malpractice.

Though Sheikh Hasina has fled, and her press and intelligence wings have been dissolved, has the sense of fairness in free journalism disappeared? Not at all. Senior journalist and editor of the daily Manab Zamin, Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, pointed out this issue during a public discussion. I think pressure groups—including some anti-discrimination student activists, government members, powerful political parties, and others—are already acting against media freedom.

I want to conclude with the example of journalist Khaled Muhiuddin, a renowned journalist who faced severe backlash on social media mainly for criticising student leaders. He also became a target after inviting a leader of Bangladesh Chhatra League, student wing of the Awami League, as a guest on his show. Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the anti-discrimination student movement, and Sarjis Alam, secretary of the July Shaheed Smrity Foundation, said Khaled Muhiuddin was "betraying the blood of the martyrs" by promoting Chhatra League. Though the proposed show was not conducted supposedly due to legal reasons, this issue has certainly cast a shadow over media freedom.

According to a report published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) in May last year, Bangladesh ranks 165th out of 180 countries in the Press Freedom Index. Moreover, RSF identified Bangladesh as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists in their 2024 round-up report.

We don't want Bangladesh to be labelled as a dangerous country for journalism. We don't want further degradation of press freedom, and we don't want to lose the sense of fairness in professional journalism again. Hopefully, the interim government will take prompt and necessary steps in this regard. A new Bangladesh certainly deserves it.

Rahat Minhaz is assistant professor of mass communication and journalism at Jagannath University.​

 

[Saif]

‘Now is the time to pursue stories without fear’

Bangladesh is experiencing “unprecedented media freedom” as it transitions to democracy, said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday.

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‘Now is the time to pursue stories without fear’

Shafiqul says country seeing unprecedented media freedom

Bangladesh is experiencing "unprecedented media freedom" as it transitions to democracy, said Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday.

Speaking at the launch of the "Development Media Forum" by Oxfam at a city hotel, he said, "We haven't used security agencies, administrative orders, or repressive laws to muzzle people's voices over the last five months."

Encouraging journalists to ask tough questions, Shafiqul said, "You can criticise me, the panel of advisers, and the chief adviser. You have that freedom."

Highlighting the role of the media, he said, "For democracy to be institutionalised, media freedom is crucial. Now is the time for journalists to pursue any stories without fear."

Shafiqul criticised unchecked development projects, both public and private, for harming the environment and marginalised communities.

"Powerful lobby groups harm nature in the name of job creation. Is it development?" he asked.

Press Institute Bangladesh Director General Faruk Wasif said it is time to question whether inequalities have increased under the Awami League in the name of development.

"The so-called development narrative of past years failed to ensure freedom, serving instead to establish authoritarianism," he said.

Swedish Ambassador Nicolas Weeks highlighted the challenge of misinformation but pledged Sweden's support for good journalism in Bangladesh.

"Media can promote social justice and be the voice of the underrepresented," he added.

Oxfam Bangladesh Country Director Ashish Damle said the organisation aims to enhance knowledge sharing and bridge local and global perspectives for better reporting on key issues, including climate change, gender equality, and social justice.

The event featured journalists, development practitioners, and diplomats discussing the media's role in fostering sustainable development and public debate.​

 

[Saif]

Hasina regime silenced media

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday said steps must be taken to ensure that no one can directly interfere with the media in the future like it was done during the ousted Sheikh Hasina government.

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Hasina regime silenced media
Shafiqul Alam says previous govt used state agencies to muzzle press

VISUAL: ANWAR SOHEL

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam yesterday said steps must be taken to ensure that no one can directly interfere with the media in the future like it was done during the ousted Sheikh Hasina government.

He said, "Over the past 15 years, intelligence agencies also played a role in silencing newspapers. Journalists would lose their jobs if they received certain phone calls, and news reports had to be removed..."

Shafiqul Alam made these remarks at a discussion titled "Media Reform Proposals: Citizens' Perspectives".

The event was organised by a group named "We Want a Fascism-Free Media" at the Dhaka Reporters' Unity in the capital's Segunbagicha.

Shafiqul said, "The previous government had the capability to control the media. A single phone call from DGFI, NSI, DB, or a minister was enough. I have heard many stories about how they controlled the media."

Advising to compile writings by columnists who defended fascist rule, he said, "Do not spread hatred against anyone. Punishing someone is not our objective. Conduct research; we aim to expose those who crafted the narratives."

Shafiqul said the previous government even justified murder as acceptable through its narratives. He emphasised the need for collective efforts to prevent the seeds of fascism from being sown again in Bangladesh.

He also said, "Ensuring the application of copyright law is crucial. All journalists must speak out strongly on this issue."

"You spend two months working on a report, and in just one minute, another news outlet -- or even a hundred outlets -- steals it. You take a great photo, and a major newspaper publishes it without permission. If you produce a quality report, a hundred outlets steal it. Those who engage in such theft should be shut down."

Akbar Hossain Majumder, press minister at the Bangladesh High Commission in the UK; Plabon Tariq, the group's spokesperson; Uttara University teacher Mahbub Alam, and lawyer Mollah Md Faruque Kaiser also spoke at the event.

Joynal Abedin Shishir, convener of the group, moderated the discussion.

The event concluded with the presentation of 13 proposals aimed at reforming the media.​