Govt committed to ensure media freedom: Minister

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring media freedom while also taking steps to strengthen regulatory and policy frameworks in the information sector.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said the government is determined to safeguard press freedom and has already begun work to form a Media Commission, says a press release.

“The government is determined to ensure media freedom. To this end, work has already begun to form a Media Commission,” he said.

He made the remarks during a meeting at the Secretariat with British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke. State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury was also present.

During the meeting, the minister sought cooperation from the United Kingdom in developing Bangladesh’s media sector. The British envoy congratulated him on his new role and discussed the work of the UK media regulator Ofcom.

The minister expressed interest in drawing on Ofcom’s experience in shaping future media policies in Bangladesh. The British High Commissioner assured continued support and cooperation in this regard.

Later, Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Renggli also met the information minister at his office.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to media freedom while stressing the need to protect citizens from misinformation and disinformation.

He highlighted the importance of Switzerland’s experience and technological expertise in addressing these challenges.

State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury said artificial intelligence (AI) has created new opportunities but also significant challenges in information verification and security. He called for joint efforts to tackle these emerging risks.

He also invited Swiss investment in Bangladesh’s promising sectors.

Officials said the proposed Media Commission would aim to strike a balance between press freedom and responsible information management in the digital age, particularly as AI-driven misinformation becomes an increasing global concern.