Opportunity Surfaces for Forming an Independent Media Commission

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said for the first time in the country's history, the government has brought together stakeholders from all sectors of the media on a single platform. And, through this, a significant opportunity has been created to ensure media freedom and establish an independent National Media Commission, in the country.

He made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at a workshop held this morning (Thursday) at the Hotel Inter-Continental in the capital, organized with the aim of formulating the outline for a National Media Commission.

The Information Minister said, "Today is a unique milestone in the history of the country's media. For the first time in Bangladesh, we have been able to bring together all mainstream stakeholders of the media on the same platform."

"This arrangement has essentially opened the door to new possibilities. This initiative will be successful only if we can collectively find the common ground for our path forward through consensus-building discussions," the minister added.

Referring to the government's plans regarding the media, Zahir Uddin Swapon said, "In successfully advancing the noble and independent objectives of the media, the government will play the role of a 'facilitator' and 'coordinator' from the state's side."

"The government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, had promised the people of the country before going to the elections to transform the state into a truly democratic and welfare state. To achieve this, the government will undertake necessary structural repairs and reforms in all areas requiring attention, in collaboration with everyone," the Information Minister said, reiterating the current government's firm commitment to building a democratic and welfare-oriented state.

At the workshop, organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the keynote paper was presented by the Prime Minister's Information Adviser, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman. State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury delivered the welcome address.

In his welcome speech, the State Minister for Information said, "After a bloody revolution and struggle, a democratic government has been established in the country. We need specific recommendations on how to uphold this democracy and how the media can act as a partner and supporter in the government's development journey."

The workshop, moderated by Ministry Secretary Mahbuba Farzana, was attended by members of the National Editors' Council, the Editors' Council, the National Newspaper Owners' Association of Bangladesh (NOAB), Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), the Bangladesh Journalist Welfare Trust, as well as various television owners, editors, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and leading media experts of the country.