The government is working on a new legal and policy framework to guarantee media freedom while tackling misinformation, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said, promising that journalists will face no government obstruction but warning that freedom cannot become a licence for disinformation or abuse.
In an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune, the BNP leader said the government is reviewing recommendations of the Media Reform Commission, drafting a comprehensive Right to Information law, strengthening its capacity to combat digital misinformation and studying international models from the UK, Australia and the European Union.
He also acknowledged the government’s responsibility for Bangladesh’s failure to build globally competitive media institutions and pledged to modernize state-owned broadcasters.
Dhaka Tribune: What steps has the government taken to ensure media freedom?
Zahir Uddin Swapon: Our government was elected through a democratic process, and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has made it clear that responsible media freedom must be ensured. The government should never obstruct journalism, but freedom must not be abused to spread misinformation or create confusion. We are consulting all media stakeholders to establish that balance.
The interim Media Reform Commission made recommendations. Will your government follow them?
We are carefully reviewing all previous commission reports and recommendations. We are not rejecting any constructive proposal. Our goal is to develop an effective and broadly acceptable framework by combining past recommendations with present realities.
Allegations over a pulled TV report raise concerns. How does the government view investigative journalism?
Investigative journalism is essential for accountability and democracy. At the same time, there have been instances where investigative reporting has been misused for blackmail. We want to encourage genuine investigative journalism while developing safeguards against abuse through consultation with media stakeholders. This issue is also part of the Media Commission’s discussions.
Right to Information Act faces hurdles. What reforms are planned?
The interim government introduced an ordinance, but we do not consider it a permanent solution. Access to information is a fundamental right. We are working on a comprehensive and updated law after extensive consultations with stakeholders.
What’s the government’s plan to tackle social‑media misinformation?
Our existing institutional structure was built for traditional media. Digital platforms require different skills and technologies. We have therefore launched a New Media project to build technical capacity and develop skilled professionals capable of identifying and countering disinformation.
How will you balance fact-checking with freedom of expression?
The challenge has changed. Earlier, the priority was securing media freedom. Today, protecting people from disinformation is equally important. That requires cooperation between the government, professional journalists and global technology companies. We are studying regulatory models adopted by the UK, Australia and the European Union to develop policies suited to Bangladesh.
Governments often pledge media freedom but act otherwise. How will you build trust?
The problem has long been the absence of a national consensus on the limits and responsibilities of media freedom. We want to protect freedom of expression while preventing disorder and misinformation. Our approach is to build that framework through dialogue with all stakeholders rather than imposing unilateral decisions.
What is your vision for Betar and BTV?
Although we now live in a digital ecosystem, much of our infrastructure remains analogue. Our first priority is digital transformation. Once that capacity is built, state-owned media can become more competitive through modern technology and content that appeals to younger audiences.
Journalists have long criticised the Digital Security Act. What’s your view?
In my view, the greater problem has often been the application of the law rather than the law itself. Unless we clearly define what constitutes legitimate information, disinformation and criminal conduct, there will always be room for misuse. We want the legal framework to be transparent, precise and fairly enforced.
Five decades on, Bangladesh still lacks globally influential media. Is the government partly responsible?
Certainly. Every government bears responsibility. We have only recently taken office, but we must learn from past failures. Having experienced undue pressure on the media and restrictions on the free flow of information while in opposition, we want to build an independent, responsible and internationally competitive media environment.