A manual titled “Gender Sensitivity in Journalism” was launched on Wednesday at the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB), aiming to promote inclusive, ethical and responsible media practices across the country.
The initiative has been jointly undertaken by the Press Institute of Bangladesh and Plan International Bangladesh under the “Shomotay Tarunno: Youth for Equality” project, implemented in collaboration with JAAGO Foundation Trust with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The event brought together policymakers, media professionals and development partners.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan attended the programme as the chief guest. Special guests included Mahbuba Farzana, secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; Shabnam Mostari, additional secretary at the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs; and Kabita Bose, country director of Plan International Bangladesh.
Faruk Wasif, director general of the Press Institute of Bangladesh, chaired the session. Monira Shormin, associate professor at the institute, presented the manual, while Nishath Sultana, director of influencing, campaign and communication at Plan International Bangladesh, reviewed it.
Speaking at the event, Zahir Uddin Swapan stressed the need for collective efforts to strengthen accountability in both political and media spheres. “We must work together to build a culture of shared values across media institutions. Without institutionalizing professionalism, harmful practices will persist,” he said, adding that fostering accountability is key to ensuring independent and responsible journalism.
Kabita Bose said the manual comes at a critical time when media narratives shape public perception. “This resource will help make journalism more inclusive and responsible,” she said, noting that Plan International Bangladesh continues to support efforts to advance gender equality.
The manual was developed through an extensive participatory process involving consultations, workshops and assessments with nearly 200 journalists from central and regional media outlets, including 40 women journalists.
Mahbuba Farzana said the manual reflects a commitment to inclusion and urged journalists to adopt more responsible practices. “While laws exist, meaningful change requires a shift in mindset,” she said.
Shabnam Mostari highlighted the need to integrate gender sensitivity into everyday media practices. “Gender equality must be reflected in how news is presented, the language used and whose voices are amplified,” she said, adding that ethical interviewing, editorial review and audience feedback mechanisms are essential.
Faruk Wasif emphasized the importance of changing the portrayal of women in media, saying the manual offers practical guidance for more balanced representation.
Developed through a collaborative and evidence-based approach, the manual provides tools for gender-sensitive language, ethical reporting and inclusive storytelling. It also aims to address persistent biases in media narratives and strengthen the role of journalism in promoting equality and social change.
Plan International Bangladesh expressed hope that the manual will serve as a valuable resource for journalists and contribute to a more inclusive media landscape.