Freedom of dissent essential for democratic development: ICC Bangladesh president
He said freedom of expression in the media should not remain merely a slogan but must be practiced in reality
Democracy cannot develop in a hostile environment without the freedom to express dissent, Mahbubur Rahman, president of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Bangladesh, has said.
Speaking at a joint protest at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka today (22 December), organised by the Editors' Council and Newspaper Owners' Association of Bangladesh (Noab), against recent mob attacks on the Prothom Alo and Daily Star offices, he said freedom of expression in the media should not remain merely a slogan but must be practiced in reality.
Mahbubur said freedom of dissent must be ensured regardless of which government is in power.
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He added that suppressing differing opinions weakens democratic practices and fuels intolerance in society, stressing that ensuring freedom of expression and fostering a culture of tolerance are crucial for building a strong and sustainable democratic system.
