On Thursday afternoon, the Midas Center in Dhaka witnessed the celebration of World Press Freedom Day in South Asia. In a panel discussion titled "Media Freedom and Expression in the Context of Current Global Environmental Crisis," organized by UNESCO, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), and Article Nineteen, Information and Broadcasting Minister Mohammad Ali Arafat highlighted the crucial role of media in debunking misinformation.
Minister Arafat stressed, "In the realm of reporting, integrity is paramount. The government always welcomes any form of critique, ensuring the safety of journalists and reporters nationwide. Even when criticizing the government based on truth and scientific information, it will be acknowledged and welcomed."
The panel discussion saw the participation of Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexandra Berg von Linde, UNESCO Representative and Head of Office in Bangladesh Suzan Vaz, and the Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), Iftekharuzzaman, among other media leaders.
Minister Arafat reiterated, "Criticism of the government is not a problem. Any critique based on truth will be welcomed by the government." However, he emphasized the detrimental effects of deliberate misinformation, stating, "When misinformation is spread purposefully, misusing the media, it hampers the country`s development, using the environment as a tool. This creates issues."
"In the fight against misinformation, purpose-driven journalism can join hands with the government, professional media, and civil society," he added.
Addressing the risks of misinformation, he said, "Misinformation thrives alongside the uninterrupted flow of information in society." When media freedom is misused, "it becomes highly detrimental. It undermines democratic progress in society and harms the people."
The government aims to ensure the protection of freedom of expression and media freedom, which have been integral since the country`s Liberation War in 1971. "The highest laws of the constitution ensure the protection of these matters. We have fought to ensure democracy and freedom of expression and have sacrificed lives to build a nation," emphasized Minister Arafat.
He further stated, "When we speak of media freedom, it should serve the greater interest of the people. Media freedom should not be exploited for any group`s agenda."
"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has created an environment conducive to the expansion of media coverage in the last decade, and development has occurred rapidly in media. If the government aimed to control or influence the media, it would not seek to increase the number of media outlets. This is an example of the government`s commitment to media freedom," said Minister Mohammad Ali Arafat.
Minister Arafat emphasized, "The government has adopted the Delta Plan, envisioning a hundred-year plan for climate and environmental management. With the assistance of the Netherlands government, its realization aims as far as 2100. While not primarily responsible for climate change, Bangladesh is one of its most affected nations."
He reiterated, "In the field of reporting, integrity is crucial. The government always welcomes any form of critique and ensures the safety of journalists and reporters nationwide. Even when criticizing the government based on truth and scientific information, it will be acknowledged and welcomed."
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