Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Calls on UN to Combat Disinformation and Uphold Ethical Media Standards
DHAKA, Bangladesh – Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, has issued a compelling call to the United Nations to spearhead the development of a robust mechanism designed to counter the escalating threat of disinformation and bolster media outlets committed to upholding ethical standards. This urgent appeal was made during a meeting with Susan Vize, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, and Mehdi Benchelah, Senior Project Officer, Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists Section, UNESCO, at the State Guest House Jamuna. The meeting preceded the Thursday launch of a crucial report, “An Assessment of Bangladesh’s Media Landscape: Focusing on Free, Independent and Pluralistic Media,” a collaborative effort between UNDP and UNESCO, which aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current media landscape in Bangladesh, identifying challenges and opportunities for promoting a free, independent, and pluralistic media environment. Professor Yunus expressed keen anticipation for the report, underscoring the pervasive problem of disinformation and fake news that plagues the nation.
The Chief Adviser highlighted the relentless barrage of disinformation originating both from within and outside the country, emphasizing that this issue extends beyond digital platforms and significantly impacts traditional media outlets as well. He specifically requested the UN to play a proactive role in combating this pervasive challenge, urging them to engage not only with the government but also directly with media organizations themselves. Professor Yunus stressed the critical need for independent regulation of media outlets, advocating for a system where consistent purveyors of disinformation are held accountable and their credibility is questioned. He earnestly sought the support of the UN, recognizing the weight and influence of their voice in addressing this critical concern.
The UNESCO representatives echoed the Chief Adviser’s concerns, emphasizing the significance of the forthcoming report. Ms. Vize explained that the report delves into the current state of Bangladesh’s media landscape, assessing both successful and unsuccessful practices. It also provides a set of recommendations aligned with international standards to improve the media environment, including crucial training for government officials, law enforcement, and the judiciary. This training is designed to enhance their understanding and application of international standards related to freedom of expression and media independence.
Mr. Benchelah further elaborated that the report also addresses the critical issue of journalists’ working conditions, a growing global concern, and the specific safety challenges faced by female journalists within newsrooms. He underscored the significant influence of key government actions in improving these vital areas. The report, developed under the UNDP’s Strengthening Institutions, Policies and Services (SIPS) project, aligns seamlessly with UNESCO’s overarching mandate to champion freedom of expression and foster media development. The collaboration between UNDP and UNESCO underscores the international community’s commitment to supporting a vibrant and independent media landscape in Bangladesh.
The forthcoming report, "An Assessment of Bangladesh’s Media Landscape," is poised to provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that characterize the media environment in Bangladesh. The report is expected to offer a framework for strengthening media independence, promoting ethical journalism, and safeguarding freedom of expression. The collaborative effort between UNDP and UNESCO, anchored in international best practices, aims to empower both media practitioners and stakeholders in navigating the evolving media landscape. The report’s comprehensive analysis and recommendations are anticipated to catalyze meaningful change, contributing to a more robust and resilient media ecosystem in Bangladesh.
The Chief Adviser’s appeal to the UN and the upcoming launch of the UNDP-UNESCO report underscore the growing urgency to address disinformation and foster ethical media practices. The collaborative efforts between national leadership and international organizations highlight the importance of a multifaceted approach to safeguard freedom of expression and ensure the integrity of information disseminated to the public. These initiatives collectively contribute to fostering a vibrant and responsible media environment that serves the public interest and upholds democratic values. The engagement with the UN signifies a crucial step towards creating a more transparent, accountable, and ethically sound media landscape in Bangladesh.