Information Minister calls for consultative committee prior to formation of Media Commission

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Sunday said the government will begin the process of forming a robust Media Commission to help establish an independent and responsible media structure in the country.

Speaking at a discussion marking World Press Freedom Day 2026 at the Tathya Bhaban auditorium in the capital, organised by the ministry, he said a consultative committee comprising media experts and key stakeholders will be formed ahead of the commission.

“The media is a vast and complex ecosystem. The government does not intend to impose decisions unilaterally. A consultative committee will be formed, led by a widely accepted media expert and involving all stakeholders,” he said.

This year’s theme in Bangladesh for the day is “Independent and Responsible Media as a Key Partner in Establishing a Culture of Accountability.”

The minister said the proposed Media Commission will be shaped by the committee’s recommendations, ensuring full freedom and protection for the media.

Highlighting challenges in the digital age, he said misinformation has emerged as a major concern due to artificial intelligence and algorithm-driven content.

“Today, the issue is not access to information, but the deliberate distortion and manipulation of information to mislead people. We must work towards building global platforms to combat misinformation and ensure clean information,” he added.

Reaffirming the government’s stance on press freedom, he said no journalist will be jailed without due cause and that professional safety will be ensured within the legal framework.

“Defamation and other legal complexities will be addressed through institutional mechanisms, including the Press Council,” he said.

At the event, Bangladesh Press Council Chairman Justice AKM Abdul Hakim said efforts are underway to strengthen the council to safeguard journalists’ rights and provide legal protection.

He noted that while press freedom is vital for democracy and the rule of law, it must be accompanied by accountability. “Rights and responsibilities go hand in hand. A lack of adherence to professional boundaries often leads to disorder. Journalists must uphold strong ethical and professional standards,” he said.

Among others present were NOAB President and Manab Zamin Editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, ATCO Secretary General and Ekushey Television Chairman Abdus Salam, Bonik Barta Editor and Editors’ Council General Secretary Dewan Hanif Mahmud, Jatiya Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, BFUJ Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury, and Independent Television Chief News Editor Mostafa Akmal.

The keynote paper was presented by Prof SM Shameem Reza of Dhaka University’s Mass Communication and Journalism Department. Additional Secretary Md Shah Alam delivered the welcome address.

Chaired by PIB Director General Faruk Wasif, the event was also attended by BSS Managing Director and Chief Editor Md Kamal Uddin Mozumder, Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed, Journalists Welfare Trust Managing Director Mohammad Abdul Bashir, along with journalists and ministry officials.