Media Reform Chief: Ensuring fair pay for journalists is key to independent journalism

Kamal Ahmed, the head of the Media Reform Commission, made it clear that for journalism to be strong, independent, and truthful, the first step is ensuring fair pay for journalists. 

He said, 

“We have been given the responsibility to bring about reforms that will help establish a strong, factual, and independent media. In the next three months, we will present our recommendations on what changes are needed. The financial security of journalists is a top priority. The very first requirement for bold and independent journalism is making sure journalists receive appropriate salaries and benefits."

These remarks came during a regional meeting with journalists from six districts in the Faridpur District Commissioner’s conference hall at 11 a.m. on Thursday.

During the meeting, journalists shared their struggles with discrimination and the challenges they face in their work. 

The Commission assured them that they would review these issues and try to find solutions wherever possible.

Kamal Ahmed also pointed out the wage gap between journalists in Dhaka and those in other parts of the country. 

“There is a large disparity in salaries between journalists working in Dhaka and those working in other areas. We will recommend setting up a minimum salary structure for all journalists,” he said.

He also spoke about corruption in the advertising industry, saying, 

“There is corruption where newspaper owners, employees, and editors are inflating their circulation numbers to raise advertising rates. Well-known newspapers are being denied government ads, while lesser-known newspapers with fake circulation numbers are getting the ads that should go to real journalists. The Commission will recommend that the government take action on this issue.”

Additionally, Kamal Ahmed mentioned that the Commission is working on strengthening the Press Council to protect journalists from harassment and mistreatment.

The event, which lasted all day, was also attended by Commission members Akhtar Hossain Khan and Begum Kamrunnessa Hasan. 

Around 60 journalists from print and electronic media outlets from Faridpur, Rajbari, Shariatpur, Madaripur, Gopalganj, and Manikganj districts participated in the workshop.