Thrust on media functioning to ensure freedom of speech

Speakers at a discussion laid importance on functioning of the media as institutions to ensure freedom of speech and responsible journalism for a new Bangladesh.

They also stressed self-regulation taking responsibility of journalists to society, humanity as well as the country which are more important to perform professionally in all circumstances.

Media Freedom Coalition and German embassy organised the discussion with two titles 'Media and information literacy in Bangladesh: looking forward', and 'Press Freedom in a new Bangladesh'.

Editor of Dhaka Tribune Zafar Sobhan, head of Content, English Web of Prothom Alo Ayesha Kabir and Dr Sharif Bhuiyan discussed as panelists in the first session and Miraz Hossain of The Business Standard, Nusrat Tabassum and Nazifa Raidah in another session represented Gen Z.

Zyma Islam of Daily Star and Sharnila Nuzhat Kabir moderated the two sessions respectively.

Talking over various questions, the speakers opined that free media should embrace a new culture free from misinformation and disinformation reviewing the role neither as pubic relation nor business model.

Media perceived as right hand of power should be removed to ensure it makes the power accountable by always asking questions, they argued.

Ask questions even young generation now leading the country's movement, said the young speakers adding that this may prevent them from being corrupt like the elder politicians who were brave and dreamed for better Bangladesh at their young age.

Nusrat Tabassum said media was not free before the August 5 and not even after August 5 adding that media's role is to keep its eyes open on all.

"Make accountable people, ask questions as citizens and challenge people," she said reminding the role of media from her experiences during the student movement.

As media is now under corporate and business hand, the young speakers also laid importance on convincing them of taking the media role to be played after the investment.

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