Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon announced today that the government plans to initiate the formation of a robust Media Commission to create an independent and accountable media structure in the country. “A consultative committee comprising media experts and all relevant stakeholders will be formed prior to the establishment of the full commission,” he stated during a discussion marking “World Press Freedom Day 2026” held at the Tathya Bhaban auditorium in the capital, organized by the Ministry.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister highlighted the importance of involving a consultative committee to ensure diverse input and avoid unilateral decisions. The committee will be led by a widely accepted media expert and include all stakeholders from the media industry. Bangladesh’s theme for World Press Freedom Day this year is “Independent and Responsible Media as a Key Partner in Establishing a Culture of Accountability.”
Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized that the proposed Media Commission will be based on the committee’s recommendations to guarantee full freedom and protection for the media. He addressed the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital age, stressing the need for global platforms to combat misinformation and ensure the dissemination of accurate information. The minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to journalists’ safety, pledging that no journalist will face imprisonment without just cause.
Chairman of the Bangladesh Press Council Justice AKM Abdul Hakim spoke at the event, emphasizing the necessity of press freedom for democracy and the rule of law while also highlighting the importance of accountability. He remarked, “Rights and responsibilities are inseparable,” and called for adherence to ethical standards and professional discipline among journalists.
The event was attended by notable figures including President of the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Secretary General of the Association of Television Channel Owners Abdus Salam, and other prominent media personalities. Professor Dr. S M Shameem Reza of Dhaka University presented the keynote paper, while Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Md Shah Alam delivered the welcome address.
Chaired by PIB Director General Faruk Wasif, the gathering included BSS Managing Director Md Kamal Uddin Mozumder, Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed, and Managing Director of the Journalists Welfare Trust Mohammad Abdul Bashir, along with journalists and ministry officials.