Journalists' body protests mandatory NOC for job switch

The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has voiced strong opposition to a recent directive from the Association of Television Channel Owners (ATCO), which mandates that journalists and media workers must secure a 'No Objection Certificate' (NOC) from their former workplaces before accepting new employment. This move by ATCO is seen by DRU as a direct assault on the professional freedom and fundamental rights of journalists in Bangladesh.

DRU's statement emphasizes that the right to change employment and work independently is constitutionally protected. By imposing the NOC requirement, ATCO is perceived as overstepping its authority and creating unnecessary barriers for media professionals. The organization argues that such directives not only contradict labor laws and journalistic ethics but also threaten the very principle of an independent media, which is crucial for a democratic society.

The implications of ATCO's notice are far-reaching, according to DRU. The mandatory NOCs, coupled with the threat of legal action for non-compliance, are expected to foster an environment of fear, uncertainty, and professional insecurity within the media sector. This could stifle career growth, discourage talent mobility, and ultimately weaken the quality and independence of journalism in the country. From the perspective of Bangladeshi journalists, this is a critical issue impacting their livelihoods and professional autonomy.

DRU's call for the immediate withdrawal of the ATCO notice underscores the urgency of the situation. The organization is urging all stakeholders to reconsider decisions that could harm the interests of journalists and the broader media landscape. This standoff highlights a recurring tension between media owners seeking to control labor practices and journalists striving to maintain their professional rights and freedoms. The international media might view this as a labor dispute, but for journalists in Bangladesh, it's a fight for their right to work freely and without undue obstruction.