Journalists from both print and electronic media often face job insecurity which ultimately is a threat to press freedom. The government is in the final stage of formulating the Mass Media Workers Act to address this issue.
The constitution of Bangladesh ensures freedom of speech as a fundamental right. The constitution strongly advocates press freedom, considering it the fourth pillar of the state alongside the executive, legislature and judiciary.
In alignment with the constitutional principles, the ruling government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, wholeheartedly backs the media to protect society’s freedom to express opinions. During its tenure of three consecutive terms, the government has undertaken a number of initiatives for the betterment of the journalist community.
RTI Act and Information Commission
After assuming power in 2009, the Awami League-led government enacted a law on the Right to Information (RTI) and established the Information Commission. Government officials are now obligated to provide information to journalists within the specified timeframe outlined by the law. This development has significantly contributed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the government activities. As a result of the RTI initiative, designated officials in every office are tasked with supplying information to the media and other interested parties as required.
Between July 2009 and December 2020, a total of 119,831 individuals were provided with information as per their requests under the law. The effectiveness of this legislation is evident in the fact that the Information Commission has successfully resolved 2,218 out of 2,315 cases related to the RTI that were brought before it since its establishment.
Promotion of RTI in Electronic and Print Media: Numerous talk shows and discussion meetings are arranged on private television channels, including Bangladesh Television, to foster widespread awareness about the Right to Information Act. A program titled “Right to Information Act, People’s Act” was broadcasted on Bangladesh Betar. Various Ministries engage in discussions with secretaries, media personalities, and senior journalists to seek necessary advice for enhancing the effectiveness of the Right to Information Act for the people.
Establishment of Journalists Welfare Trust
Another significant and media-friendly initiative of the present government is the establishment of the Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust. Over the years, the trust has emerged as an organization of reliability for journalists. This trust, funded by the government, has substantially contributed to support media workers facing financial difficulties.
Building skilled manpower
The Awami League government has actively addressed the growing demand for skilled manpower in the expanding media sector of the country. To enhance the professional standards of journalists nationwide, the government regularly organizes training programs. Moreover, steps have been taken to establish opportunities for higher education in journalism at both public and private universities. This initiative has resulted in many university graduates actively participating in the continuously growing media sector, contributing to the development and diversity of the industry.
Stopping harassment of journalists
The authority to arrest journalists without a court warrant under the Special Power Act has been eliminated, instilling a sense of security among journalists in the country. Stringent actions have been implemented to counter incidents of attacks on journalists and bloggers perpetrated by militants. The government’s zero-tolerance policy has led to a significant reduction in such attacks on media personnel. Moreover, the Press Council is actively addressing disputes among various stakeholders within the media industry, contributing to a more harmonious media environment.
Extending Wage Board Coverage
Newspaper owners in the country enjoy the benefit of importing newsprint and other printing materials from abroad without incurring taxes. Simultaneously, they are obligated by law to adhere to a salary package for their journalists, as recommended by the wage board consisting of representatives from the government, journalists, and owners. The government has recently announced the 9th Wage Board. The government is also considering extending the coverage of the wage board to include journalists, camera-persons, and other support service personnel associated with private TV channels.
Other Initiatives for Media Development
Moreover, the government has prohibited the broadcast of commercial ads on foreign satellite TV channels. This step has significantly contributed to the growth of local media. Additionally, revenue generated from government advertisements and supplements further supports the sustainability and flourishing of the media industry.
The government’s media-friendly policies have led to a significant surge in the number of newspapers in the country. According to the Department of Films and Publications, there are currently over 700 enlisted newspapers in the country. Among these, 560 are dailies, with 255 being published from the capital.
The electronic media has also experienced substantial growth. The government has granted licenses to 45 private TV channels, 27 FM radio stations, and 31 community radio stations. Official data indicates that 31 TV channels, 22 FM radio stations, and 17 community radio stations are currently broadcasting, while others are in the process of preparing for launch. This expansion underscores the dynamic media environment fostered by the government’s initiatives.
The country’s print and electronic media carry out their activities with complete freedom. Live programs such as talk shows, discussions, and debates on TV channels enjoy widespread popularity. Distinguished individuals, including politicians, intellectuals, educationists, journalists, and ordinary citizens, frequently participate in these live events, expressing their opinions freely. It is common for these discussions to involve extensive criticism of the government without any form of censorship. The government refrains from interference in the open expression of diverse opinions and views. This environment underscores the commitment to freedom of expression in both print and electronic media.
Journalists from both print and electronic media often face job insecurity which ultimately is a threat to press freedom. The government is in the final stage of formulating the Mass Media Workers Act to address this issue.
In conclusion, it can be said that Bangladesh’s constitutional commitment to free speech and press freedom is robustly upheld by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The Right to Information Act and Information Commission enhance transparency, while measures eliminating arbitrary arrest of journalists bolster media safety. Favorable policies, such as tax exemptions for newsprint imports, contribute to a thriving media industry. The establishment of Bangladesh Journalists Welfare Trust reflects a comprehensive dedication to press freedom and the well-being of journalists.
