Online Desk:
Marking World Press Freedom Day, the Investigative Journalists Forum (IJF) has called for ensuring media freedom and the safety of journalists, stressing that a free press is essential for democracy, accountability and justice.
In a statement issued on Sunday (May 3), IJF President Rezaul Karim Reza and General Secretary KM Abdul Majid said that media freedom in Bangladesh is currently facing multiple challenges. They pointed to obstacles in news gathering and publication, along with attacks, harassment, false cases and misuse of laws that are shrinking the space for freedom of expression.
They also noted that job insecurity, wage disparity and the lack of implementation of the wage board are undermining the professional dignity of journalists.
In the statement, IJF placed a five-point demand, including ensuring the safety of journalists, swift and impartial justice of attacks and killings, legal reforms to protect freedom of expression and prevent misuse of laws, implementation of fair wage structures and the wage board across media outlets, and creating a safe environment for investigative journalism.
The IJF leaders said a strong and independent media is crucial to prevent corruption, irregularities and abuse of power, adding that investigative journalism is indispensable for safeguarding the public’s right to know.
On the occasion, they paid tribute to journalists around the world who have risked their lives to bring out the truth. They also reiterated: “Journalism is not a crime.”
The statement concluded with solidarity and best wishes for all those engaged in the struggle for free media and independent journalism.
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