Lack of gender sensitivity reflects broader deficit in collective values: Info minister
“If basic values of society and the state can be ensured, gender sensitivity will be achieved organically,” he said.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said that a lack of gender sensitivity is not merely a psychological issue of individuals; rather, it reflects a broader deficit in collective values.
"If basic values of society and the state can be ensured, gender sensitivity will be achieved organically," he said at a seminar held at the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) in the capital today (22 April).
Swapon said both politicians and media professionals must remain constantly engaged with the people.
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The goal of politicians is to exercise state power and serve the public, while the role of the media is to provide objective news, he said.
He said that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government believes in freedom of the mass media, as only a strong and independent media can hold political power accountable.
Regarding the impact of mobile journalism and social media, the minister said, "Nowadays, anyone with a smartphone can create content. Although many call it 'mojo' journalism, it is, in fact, a global challenge."
Noting that the government does not want to impose unilateral decisions to address the existing problems in the media sector, the minister said, "The prime minister has already held a meeting with newspaper owners. Meetings will also be held with editors and television owners in phases. Necessary steps will be taken to resolve problems based on stakeholders' proposals."
