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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฉ Bangladesh /Culture & Society

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From Daily Star · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • The government plans to amend the Press Council Act to introduce minimum educational qualifications for journalists.
  • The proposed changes include a registration system, financial penalties for unethical reporting, and powers for the Press Council to act against fake news.
  • Existing laws already regulate digital content like podcasts and blogs, with a new policy framework being examined.

Bangladesh's government is considering significant amendments to the Press Council Act, 1974, aiming to professionalize the journalism sector. Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon announced plans to introduce minimum educational qualifications for journalists and a Bar Council-style registration system. The proposed changes also include financial penalties for publishing false or unethical reports and empower the Press Council to proactively address rumors, fake news, hate speech, and content deemed contrary to national interest. Swapon emphasized the government's commitment to media independence while stating it does not support "unauthorised, unprofessional or unethical activities in the name of mobile journalism." The minister also noted that podcasts, blogs, and influencer content are regulated under existing laws, and a modern policy framework is being developed to balance free expression with public interest in the expanding digital media landscape. Discussions are also ongoing regarding the implementation of the Ninth Newspaper Wage Board Award, which has faced challenges due to disagreements over income tax payments.

The government does not support unauthorised, unprofessional or unethical activities in the name of mobile journalism.

โ€” Zahir Uddin SwaponInformation and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon stated the government's position on mobile journalism during a parliamentary session.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.