Media for democracy
Speakers at a discussion yesterday stressed the need for developing journalistic competence among the country’s alternative media including those based on the internet to tackle rumours and disinformation.
Chances of spreading rumours and disinformation have increased due to limitations in free flow of information, imposed by the state, they said.
Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE), an organisation working for press freedom, organised the discussion on “Media for Democracy” at Dhaka Reporters Unity, marking World Press Freedom Day.
Addressing the discussion, Prof Gitiara Nasreen of mass communications and journalism department of Dhaka University said the best way to stop rumours is to ensure free flow of information.
Alternative media should not be stopped. Instead, focus should be on how they can be efficient and can disseminate right information, she said, adding that journalistic competence of mainstream media has to be developed as well.
Senior journalist Monjurul Ahsan Bulbul said proper use of technology is important to increase journalistic quality in the country. He also stressed the importance of critical analysis of contents produced by media outlets to increase quality journalism.
Lawyer Jyotirmoy Barua said ensuring freedom of expression and press will not be possible if formulation of “repressive law” is not stopped.
Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, chief executive officer of VOICE, and Irin Zaman of PEN International, among others, spoke at the discussion.
Meanwhile, Maulik Adhikar Suraksha Committee yesterday demanded repeal of “repressive laws”, resumption of blocked media outlets and compensation to their employees.
Issuing a statement, it said cases under Digital Security Act were filed against 12 individuals including media personnel between January and March this year.
There are allegations that the government tries to control the media, barring journalists from pursuing independent and neutral journalism, the statement added.
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