Media freedom in Bangladesh continues to face crises and challenges, according to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). The human rights organization stated that without a free, independent and responsible media, it is not possible to ensure the development of democracy, the protection of human rights, and state accountability. The organization made these remarks in a statement issued on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day.
In the statement released on Saturday, ASK noted that freedom of expression is not merely a standalone right; it is a fundamental basis for safeguarding other rights. A free media strengthens citizens’ voices, exposes the abuse of power, and facilitates the pursuit of justice.
Article 39 of the Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, speech and of the press, placing an obligation on the state to ensure an environment in which journalists and citizens can express their views without fear or harassment. Similarly, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) recognize the right to seek, receive and impart information as a fundamental freedom.
The statement further observed that media freedom in the country continues to face multidimensional crises and challenges. Lawsuits against journalists, the risk of arrest, harassment over digital expression, pressure on investigative journalism, ownership influence, self-censorship, and obstacles in field reporting are constricting the space for independent journalism. There have also been allegations of attacks, threats and surveillance targeting journalists.
ASK also noted that limitations in the effective implementation of the Right to Information Act, reluctance to provide official information, and the tendency to withhold information of public interest are weakening democratic transparency. When the media face barriers in accessing information, the public is deprived of its right to know the truth.
To address the challenges of misinformation, disinformation, violence and hate speech, ASK emphasized strengthening fact-checking mechanisms without restricting freedom of expression, improving professional standards in journalism, enhancing digital literacy, and establishing accountable policy frameworks. The organization expects effective measures to ensure the safety of journalists and media workers, a review and reform of laws and policies that undermine freedom of expression or are prone to misuse, and impartial investigations into attacks, violence and harassment against journalists, with accountability for those responsible.
It also called for the effective implementation of the Right to Information Act and easier access to public information, as well as joint initiatives by media institutions and civil society to foster an independent, pluralistic and ethical media environment. ASK further stressed the need to ensure a safe and non-discriminatory workplace for women journalists and media workers from marginalized communities.