Bangladesh’s government is preparing to roll out a series of media reforms, including the overhaul of the newspaper circulation audit process and the introduction of a new ordinance aimed at safeguarding the rights of journalists.
Adviser Confirms New Initiatives in Meeting with UNESCO
Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuj Alam outlined these plans during a meeting with UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, Sue Vize, held at the Secretariat on Tuesday.
According to a press release, the adviser stated that a taskforce will be formed to redesign the current newspaper circulation audit system, which is often viewed as outdated and lacking transparency.
Mahfuj also confirmed that a draft ordinance protecting journalistic rights is nearly complete. He expects the ordinance to be issued soon and hinted at more media-related reforms in the coming months.
“Media Is Fully Independent,” Adviser Says
Touching on concerns over press freedom, Mahfuj said there is no government pressure on the media in Bangladesh at this time.
“The media is completely independent in terms of news dissemination,” he said.
He also shared that the government is working with media institutions and other stakeholders to develop a formal code of conduct for newspapers and journalists.
UNESCO Consultant Also Present
With talk of media reform heating up, officials have confirmed a new ordinance and taskforce are in the works—changes they say will balance accountability with free expression.
At a recent meeting on the topic, which included UNESCO consultant Lena Fox, an adviser kept details vague.
He offered no clear timeline for the ordinance, simply stating it would be out “shortly,” with more reforms to follow.
