The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has urged Dr Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government, to take immediate steps to safeguard press freedom in the country.
In a letter sent Monday, following a recent meeting at the UN General Assembly, CPJ outlined 10 key actions for the interim government to protect journalists and uphold freedom of expression.
Among its top recommendations, CPJ called for a moratorium on restrictive media laws, particularly in light of the recent repeal of the contentious Cyber Security Act 2023, which replaced the much-criticized Digital Security Act used to target journalists under previous administrations.
CPJ also urged the dismissal of numerous retaliatory cases against journalists, many of whom are facing police investigations or imprisonment.
The letter highlighted the importance of addressing the ongoing detention of four pro-Awami League journalists, urging the government to uphold their right to a fair trial.
It also demanded investigations into recent attacks on journalists, including fatal shootings in July 2024, unresolved murders, and reports of custodial violence, torture, and abductions.
Additional recommendations included ending the surveillance and harassment of journalists, implementing protective legislation, and reforming the Bangladesh Press Council to function as an independent body.
CPJ further advocated for streamlined press accreditation, unrestricted visas for foreign journalists, and unimpeded access to media and internet services.
The organization emphasized that these reforms are essential for ensuring a robust, independent press in Bangladesh amid mounting threats to media rights.
