Diplomats of different western countries stationed here at a discussion today called for protecting media freedom for enjoying strong democracy and ensuring greater economic growth.
"Protecting media freedom benefits societies in many ways. Studies have shown that countries with more press freedom have greater economic growth," said Charge d'affaires (CDA) at the US Embassy in Dhaka Helen LaFave.
The US Embassy in Dhaka hosted the discussion titled "Shaping a future of rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights" held at the American Center auditorium to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2023.
Representatives of member countries of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) in Bangladesh attended the event.
LaFave said a free press promotes transparency, which increases accountability as it helps reduce corruption, and fosters a business-friendly environment.
"As we look to the future, we must recognize the importance of preserving and protecting the right to freedom of expression and the press in the face of threats such as disinformation and censorship," she said, adding that it is particularly critical in elections periods.
She said all including the government, owners of media organizations, civil society leaders, political parties, and international organizations have a responsibility to recognize and protect the value of press freedom and to protect it.
A free press is also essential for promoting human rights and social justice while journalists play a critical role in exposing human rights abuses and promoting accountability, she added.
LaFave said the journalists can also promote gender equality by ensuring that women's voices are heard and their experiences represented.
"Journalism is not a crime. I repeat journalism is not a crime.
Journalists should not be punished or face criminal charges just for doing their job," she said.
Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dr Lily Nicholls said the number of countries regarded as safe where journalists can work in complete security, continues to decline.
Quoting the World Press Freedom Index prepared by Reporters without Borders (RSF), she said journalism is blocked or impeded in 73 percent of the 180 countries they have studied.
Nicholls said they must acknowledge the important role of women journalists and other marginalized groups in the exercise, promotion and protection of press freedom, and the specific risks they face as they carry out their work.
Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Jeremy Bruer, Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Anne van Leeuwen, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis, representatives of the Media Freedom Coalition and senior journalists were present.
The programme began with a video screening that contained comments from diplomats.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha