Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has emphasized that the media industry should not be seen solely as a profit-driven entity but as a crucial sector for social reconstruction. He delivered these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion marking World Press Freedom Day 2026, held at the CIRDAP auditorium in the capital today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was jointly organized by the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors’ Council. Minister Swapon highlighted the government’s commitment to treating the media as an integral part of the state system, aiming for a culture of facilitation rather than control to foster the sector’s development. He mentioned the government’s intent to establish “healthy regulation” to promote sustainable industry growth and acknowledged the need for modern approaches to meet digital era challenges.
Swapon announced plans for forming an advisory committee with all stakeholders involved to create an independent “Media Commission.” He stressed the importance of objective reporting, warning against unverified information and urging media outlets to avoid baseless reports.
The event was chaired by Nurul Kabir, editor of New Age and president of the Editors’ Council, and featured addresses from prominent figures such as NOAB President and Editor-in-Chief of Manabzamin Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, and Editor of The Daily Star Mahfuz Anam. Other notable attendees included Jatiya Press Club President and Editor of Kaler Kantho Hasan Hafiz, Chief of Media Reform Commission Kamal Ahmed, and Financial Express Editor Shamsul Huq Zahid.
Mahfuz Anam emphasized that independent journalism is vital for safeguarding democracy, human rights, and justice, urging journalists to prioritize public interest over group interests. Matiur Rahman Chowdhury raised concerns about misinformation resembling a pandemic, calling for a social movement and legal measures to address it, and criticized the unhealthy competition for online engagement.
Nurul Kabir, in his presidential speech, called for the government to ensure the free flow of information and move away from curbing press freedom under the guise of “responsibility.” He linked this to new political expectations following the July Mass Uprising.
Speakers at the discussion emphasized collective efforts to secure financial sustainability, enhance professional standards, ensure journalist safety, and address challenges from digital platforms.