Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized that the government is working with journalists and media owners to protect the interests of the media. He stated that there is no form of government control over the media and that all parties are jointly working to build an independent, responsible, and economically sustainable media system. The minister made these remarks at a seminar titled 'Role of Media in Sustainable Democracy' organized by the Television Editors Council (TEC) in Dhaka. He highlighted the need for a balanced media ecosystem that considers the interests of media owners, journalists, advertisers, the state, and the people. Swapon stressed the importance of ensuring the professional independence, dignity, and security of journalists while also strengthening the economic foundation of the media industry. He called for future-oriented policies and institutional reforms to address the complexities introduced by digital platforms, global technology companies, and artificial intelligence. The minister urged all stakeholders to work together under the leadership of Tarique Rahman to utilize the opportunities created by recent state and institutional reforms, including in the media sector.
Swapon noted that democracy and media are complementary, with an independent and responsible media being essential for establishing sustainable democracy. He described the media as an 'unannounced yet inevitable fourth pillar of the state and society,' emphasizing the state's responsibility to ensure the professional independence and security of journalists. He warned against the use of media as a tool for business interests or bargaining, stressing the need for good governance and an effective regulatory system to prevent such tendencies. The seminar was attended by various prominent figures in the media industry, including Independent Television Chief News Editor Mostofa Akmal, BanglaVision Chief Editor Dr. Abdul Hai Siddique, and others.
The minister's remarks come at a time when the media landscape in Bangladesh is evolving with the integration of new technologies and digital platforms. He called for a regulatory framework that ensures the fair rights of all stakeholders, rather than control over the media. Swapon's vision for the media sector aligns with the broader goals of sustainable democracy and good governance in Bangladesh.
