Objective journalism can bring progressive changes to society

Ensuring objectivity in journalism in a country can bring progressive changes to the society, thus preserving public interests, speakers said yesterday.

They said this at a seminar "Journalistic Objectivity: A Bangladesh Context" held by Dhaka University Journalists' Association (Duja) at the university's senate building. Chief Information Commissioner Prof Dr Golam Rahman inaugurated the seminar chaired by Duja President Asifur Rahman.

Prof Dr AJM Shafiul Alam Bhuiyan in his keynote paper said there are many impediments to ensuring balance and impartiality in journalism in Bangladesh, including manipulative tendencies and political biases.

On the other hand, privately-run media attempts to protect their business interests and those of their clients, as advertisements are the primary source of their incomes, he mentioned, adding, "Our political parties and ruling elites are yet to learn to accept criticism." Both the government and corporations need to stay away from intervening in the media so that it can work freely, Bhuiyan stressed.

Addressing the seminar as its chief guest, Dhaka University (DU) Vice Chancellor Prof AAMS Arefin Siddique said keeping media objective will benefit the country more.

He added that journalists should remain free from being influenced by others including political parties. Thus people will get objective news.

Prof Mofijur Rahman, chairman of DU mass communication and journalism department, also spoke.

The Association's newly formed committee was accorded a reception in the programme.