Free, independent media essential for democracy and rights: ASK

A free, independent and responsible media is essential for democracy, human rights and state accountability, said Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). 

The organisation made the remarks ahead of World Press Freedom Day tomorrow (3 May). It also highlighted ongoing challenges facing media freedom in the country.

In a statement marking the occasion, ASK said freedom of expression is not only a fundamental right in itself but also a key foundation for protecting other rights.

An independent media, it noted, strengthens citizens' voices, exposes abuse of power and contributes to ensuring justice.

The organisation referred to Article 39 of the Constitution of Bangladesh, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, speech and the press, placing a responsibility on the state to ensure an environment where opinions can be expressed without fear or harassment.

It also cited Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which recognise the right to seek, receive and share information.

As a signatory, Bangladesh has an obligation to protect freedom of expression and ensure the safety of journalists, it added.

ASK said media freedom in the country continues to face multiple challenges.

These include cases against journalists, fear of arrest, harassment over online expression, pressure on investigative reporting, ownership influence and self-censorship.

Barriers to gathering information in the field further restrict independent journalism, it said.

The organisation also expressed concern over reported incidents of attacks, threats and surveillance targeting journalists.

It noted that limitations in implementing the Right to Information Act, along with reluctance to share public information, weaken transparency and accountability.

When the media cannot access information, the public's right to know is also affected, it said.

At the same time, ASK acknowledged challenges such as misinformation, disinformation and hate speech, but said these should be addressed through improved fact-checking, professional standards, digital literacy and accountable policies rather than restricting free expression.

The organisation outlined several expectations, including ensuring the safety of journalists, reviewing laws that restrict freedom of expression, conducting impartial investigations into attacks on media workers, and improving access to information.

It also called for creating an environment that supports independent, pluralistic and ethical journalism, and ensuring safe and inclusive workplaces for female journalists and those from marginalised communities.

Tahmina Rahman, executive director of ASK, said, "Ensuring a free, independent, and safe media environment is a fundamental responsibility of a democratic state. Effective initiatives are urgent to establish an environment where journalists can perform their professional duties without fear, pressure, or harassment. When the freedom of the press is protected, the rights of citizens are also more securely protected."