Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has announced that the government is taking initiatives to build a transformed media ecosystem in response to the rapidly evolving digital landscape, as the country’s media sector remains largely entrenched in an outdated analog framework. Swapon emphasized the necessity of moving beyond conventional thinking and practices to address structural weaknesses that have long plagued the sector.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks in response to questions from journalists after engaging in discussions with Deputy Commissioners on the final day of the DC Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital. Swapon highlighted plans for coordinated measures to tackle misinformation and disinformation, modernize information management, and ensure job security for journalists.
Swapon further elaborated on the extensive problems within the media sector, stressing the need to transition from an old analog structure to one that accommodates digital platforms. He called for cooperation from the Deputy Commissioners in implementing these changes and emphasized the importance of a more responsible and disciplined flow of information, achieved through coordination with the media.
The minister noted the emergence of numerous individuals and organizations identifying themselves as journalists and media owners, a development that has led professional journalists to demand action against unregulated entities. He described the issue as sensitive and assured that the government would consider the views of all stakeholders before taking action.
Swapon expressed optimism that effective solutions to the media sector’s existing problems would soon be achieved through coordination with relevant stakeholders. He also outlined the government’s stance on journalists’ salary structures, job security, and professional safety, mentioning that policy-level discussions have already been held with the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and that meetings with television owners’ associations will follow.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that journalists, as members of a respected profession, receive fair salary structures, job security, and a safe working environment in accordance with the law.