Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam today emphasized that credible and trustworthy information is essential to build a trusted, inclusive and resilient digital society in Bangladesh. Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion on 'Information Integrity and Social Cohesion in Bangladesh: Policy, Platform Accountability and Collective Action,' Anam highlighted the rapid expansion of digital platforms in the country and the opportunities they provide for citizens. However, he stressed that reliable information is crucial for the development of a trustworthy digital ecosystem.
Anam, who is also in charge of the Science and Technology ministry, noted that information integrity involves more than just combating misinformation and disinformation. It also requires social cohesion and meaningful citizen participation to build public trust. He called for coordinated efforts by the government, technology platforms, media organizations, civil society, and citizens to create a credible, safe, and trusted information ecosystem.
The minister underscored the importance of responsible journalism and quality content in both traditional and digital media. He warned that harmful, misleading, and manipulative content could have serious consequences, especially for children and young people. Anam sought cooperation from all stakeholders to address these challenges and promote a safer, more responsible, and inclusive information environment.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government remains committed to building a safe, inclusive, and trusted digital environment. Anam stressed that active support and cooperation from the media, technology platforms, civil society, and other stakeholders are essential to achieving this goal.
Mahfuz Anam, Editor and Publisher of The Daily Star, echoed the minister's sentiments, stating that fact-checking, credibility, and accuracy are indispensable for good governance and public trust in an era of rapid technological advancement. He noted that while freedom of expression on social media is increasing, it also raises the risk of the rapid spread of misinformation. Anam emphasized the responsibility of journalists and institutions to verify facts before sharing them and highlighted The Daily Star's commitment to ethical journalism and its efforts to strengthen fact-checking and verification initiatives.
A recent UNDP Bangladesh analysis presented at the event revealed that more than half of the online content studied contained false or misleading information, while over one-fifth involved AI-manipulated media. Participants at the discussion called for strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks, ensuring greater accountability of digital platforms, promoting digital safety, and addressing technology-facilitated harms. They also emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, media and information literacy, and building greater resilience among citizens to critically assess information and participate meaningfully in public discourse.
The dialogue brought together government officials, policymakers, academics, media professionals, civil society representatives, and development partners to examine emerging digital threats and identify concrete and coordinated policy responses to strengthen information integrity, social cohesion, and public trust in Bangladesh. The significance of these efforts lies in their potential to foster a safer, more responsible, and inclusive digital environment, crucial for the socio-economic development and stability of the nation.
