Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has proposed forming an advisory committee comprising stakeholders to establish a Media Commission aimed at ensuring press freedom and accountability.
He made the proposal on Sunday at a discussion held at the Information Building conference room marking World Press Freedom Day.
The minister said the global media landscape is facing complex challenges. He said journalists are increasingly exposed to risks in conflict zones, while rapid expansion of digital platforms, social media, and artificial intelligence is transforming the flow of information.
He said new challenges around media require new approaches beyond conventional thinking and media freedom and responsibility are crucial in the Bangladesh context.
He said the government aims to build an independent, strong, and responsible media system. On the proposed Media Commission, he said an advisory committee will be formed with stakeholders to develop an effective and acceptable structure.
He said the initiative will be implemented through continuous dialogue with editors’ bodies, journalist organisations, media owners, and other relevant stakeholders.
The minister said the government does not believe in interfering in media activities. He reiterated the government’s commitment to fearless, objective, and impartial journalism.
At the event, a keynote paper was presented by Dhaka University Mass Communication and Journalism Department Professor SM Shamim Reza.
Others who spoke included Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh President and Manabzamin Editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Association of Television Channel Owners Secretary General and Ekushey Television Chairman Abdus Salam, Editors’ Council General Secretary and Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists General Secretary Kader Gani Chowdhury, and Independent Television Chief News Editor Mostafa Akmal.
Earlier in the morning, a rally was brought out marking World Press Freedom Day 2026.
The rally started from the Officers’ Club and ended at the Information Building.
