Journalists and stakeholders on Sunday stressed the urgent need to ensure the safety and security of media professionals alongside responsible journalism ahead of the upcoming national election.
They noted that while field-level risks for journalists increase during elections, legal complications, harassment, and uncertainty also rise, necessitating quick legal advice and support.
The call came during the handover ceremony of a Journalist Support Desk at the Shafiqul Alam Auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU).
The desk was established by the media and communication-focused organisation Somosti under a project titled “Enhancing Legal Support System to Strengthen Media Protection,” in partnership with journalists and legal aid organisations. Supported by UNESCO’s Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), the desk will now be operated by DRU.
Speaking as the chief guest, Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, stated that while the government has many shortcomings that need to be criticised, ensuring journalists’ safety is a responsibility that relevant stakeholders must undertake.
Highlighting the risks faced during the July movement, he noted that six journalists were killed, yet their houses did not provide them with protective equipment. He further emphasised the need for risk-reduction guidelines and a guidebook to support ethical and well-prepared reporting in Bangladesh.
The programme was chaired by Dr Susan Vize, UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, who described the support desk as a “timely and highly important initiative.”
She remarked that ahead of the national election, journalists face increased workloads and risks, making it crucial to present accurate and unbiased information.
She noted that the population depends on journalists to understand political changes and the referendum, which are vital for the country’s future.
Lena Fox, GMDF representative, observed that journalists globally are facing growing legal harassment and security risks. She stated that the support desk initiative would ensure timely legal support in the context of Bangladesh.
DRU President Abu Saleh Akon emphasised the importance of unity, urging journalists to rise above divisions and stand against any form of oppression or harassment.
Through the support desk, journalists will receive prompt advice and referral support if they face legal complications or harassment. DRU will coordinate the desk’s operations with various journalist organisations and legal aid providers, while Somosti will continue to provide technical support.
The event, moderated by Dhaka Tribune Editor Riaz Ahmed, also featured speeches from Mir Masruruzzaman, executive director of Somosti; Mynul Hasan Sohel, DRU general secretary; Foyez Ahammad, senior assistant press secretary to the chief adviser; Sohrab Hasan, editor of Chorcha; Obaidur Rahman Shaheen, president of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists; and Md Shahidul Islam, president of Dhaka Union of Journalists. Other speakers included Seema Jahur, president of Bangladesh Women Lawyers’ Association; Sujay Chowdhury, executive director of Ain Seba; and MM Badshah, general secretary of CRAB, among others.
