CPJ condemns attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, calls for journalist safety

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has expressed alarm over reports that crowds vandalised and set fire to the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star last night, trapping journalists inside before they were rescued, and has urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of news outlets and journalists.

"The CPJ is alarmed by reports of crowds vandalising and setting on fire the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star early Friday, trapping journalists inside before they could be rescued," reads a statement. 

The CPJ Asia has said they are monitoring the situation and urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of news outlets and journalists, and to hold those responsible accountable.

In the Facebook post, the CPJ also shared safety guidance for journalists covering political rallies and protests.

The CPJ wrote safety advice for covering political rallies and protests with the caption, "This guide contains recommendations to mitigate risks for journalists reporting in locations affected by crowd violence."

Titled "Resources for journalists covering protests", the CPJ laid out advice stating that protests and other crowded gatherings are dynamic situations that can quickly turn dangerous or violent.

"It is important for journalists to understand the protest environment they are reporting in and to be prepared for any potential risks they may encounter."

It also warned that covering protests and civil unrest may result in surveillance, arrest, and targeted attacks. 

"Journalists should prepare their communication plans, equipment, and transportation in advance of a protest assignment in order to minimise potential risks.

"They should research the groups involved and adequately plan for situations that may involve tear gas, violence, or arrest."

Journalists carrying digital devices into a crowd should be prepared for the devices to be broken, stolen, or confiscated, it further said. 

CPJ noted that it has compiled a set of resources to help journalists anticipate and plan for some of the risks involved with covering protests, civil unrest, and other unpredictable crowds."

"Journalists should complete a risk assessment to identify potential threats and create a plan before an assignment," the post reads