Dhaka: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Sunday engaged in a meeting with a delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI), focusing on strategies to prevent cybercrime and online bullying, alongside discussions on the proposed Cyber Security (Amendment) Act 2026. The meeting, held at the minister's office at noon, aimed to address the growing concerns over cyber threats in the digital age.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the IRI delegation was led by Resident Programme Director John Fluharty. The meeting included participants like Helen Jerin Khan, MP, IRI Technical Adviser Ruksana Haque, and young politicians and IRI trainees Chamon Faria and Mohammad Prince. Fluharty briefed the minister on IRI's efforts to develop youth leadership and promote non-violent political practices. He highlighted the challenges faced by the youth and political activists in Bangladesh, particularly harassment and defamation due to cyberbullying and disinformation.
Fluharty urged for a consensus-based policy and legal frameworks to protect both government and opposition parties. Minister Salahuddin Ahmed assured the delegation of the government's commitment to safeguarding citizens' freedom of expression and personal security. He referenced Article 39 of the Constitution, emphasizing the right to express opinions and engage in constructive criticism, while distinguishing it from character assassination or abusive language for political gains.
The minister conveyed that the government has been consulting the international community, media, and civil society stakeholders over the past two months to refine the proposed Cyber Security (Amendment) Act. The law aims to promote civility in the digital sphere, protect women and young people from cyberbullying, and ensure journalists' professional safety, while preventing legal misuse.
Salahuddin expressed openness to constructive recommendations from both international and local stakeholders to enhance digital security and foster a violence-free political environment. The meeting was also attended by Additional Home Secretary Dr Ziauddin Ahmed and Joint Secretary Rebeka Khan, among others.