Dhaka: Speakers, at a gender-related event, today said that women's professional presence in the media is low. Their presence in top positions is even lower, they said, adding that even, women are not always treated sensitively at every level in the media. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the speakers came up with these remarks at the 'Gender Commitment Charter for the News Media' event, organized by the Media and Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) at The Daily Star Bhaban in the capital. The speakers emphasized that gender equality must be ensured in the media and gender discrimination in the media must be eliminated. They argued that appointments for women should be made based on merit and skills, and the overall security must be provided in all areas for women. Earlier, Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks inaugurated the event as the chief guest while MRDI Executive Director Hasibur Rahman conducted it. Speaking on the occasion, the Swedish ambassador highlighted the media's role in showcasing different aspects of society and stressed the importance of portraying women and men equally for the sake of democracy. He noted that the media has a crucial role in promoting democracy and ensuring freedom of expression regardless of gender, and called for a smooth environment in the media irrespective of gender, with an increased focus on women's participation in policy-making. Prothom Alo Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif welcomed attendees, explaining the 'Gender Commitment Charter for the News Media' aims to create a fair and equal environment for all genders, including women. He encouraged media organizations to develop their own policies based on this charter. Dhaka University's Department of Mass Communication and Journalism Professor and Head of the Gender Charter Working Group Dr. Geetiara Nasreen highlighted the relatively low participation of women in media. She stressed the necessity of specific and clear policies to express the views of all genders. Media Reform Commission Chief and veteran journalist Kamal Ahmed emphasized the need for pragmatic discussions with all stakeholders for effective implementation of the gender-related charter. Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) Director General Faruk Wasif expressed PIB's readiness to provide gender commitment certificates and related training as new media outlets emerge. Senior News Editor of Channel i Mir Mashruruzzaman Rony, Executive Director of Channel 24 Talat Mamun, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jamuna Television Fahim Ahmed also contributed to the discussions, among others.
