Dhaka: Principal Information Officer (PIO) of the Press Information Department, Syed Abdal Ahmed, emphasized the critical role of accurate and verified information in countering disinformation, a growing challenge in today's digital age. Speaking at a seminar organized by the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) and the Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) at the Jitaya Press Club, Ahmed highlighted the importance of presenting correct facts to combat rumours effectively.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ahmed, while presenting the keynote paper, identified disinformation and rumours as significant threats to national security, citing a World Economic Forum report that ranks them as the top short-term global risk for the next two years. Data from the Press Information Department's research wing revealed 18 incidents of baseless news between February 24 and April 26 this year, threatening social stability and mainstream journalism's credibility.
Ahmed referenced the 2026 Reporters Without Borders (RSF) report, which ranked Bangladesh 152nd among 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index. He expressed optimism that this ranking would improve due to initiatives by the current government. He also noted the media's struggles during 15 years of authoritarian rule and its ongoing recovery towards free and independent journalism.
Addressing the risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology, Ahmed called for specialised training for journalists and the establishment of fact-checking wings in media houses. He advocated for objective journalism supported by organisations like Rumour Scanner and Dismislab, emphasizing the media's role as a societal mirror and the necessity of a free press for transparency and accountability.
The seminar, attended by top leaders from BFUJ and DUJ, concluded with speakers urging for effective government support to ensure independent and safe journalism.