Apurbo Ahmed Jewel: In the present time, severe instability is prevalent worldwide. In our country, there is a gradual rise in aggression and intolerance. It is essential for humanity to overcome this aggression and intolerance. People need to awaken their sense of human values. Mutual tolerance is decreasing gradually. However, this aggression, intolerance, and terrorism pose a threat to national and international security, economic prosperity, and stability. Just as human freedom is essential, so is the freedom of the press. Without press freedom, democracy is meaningless. Journalists can play a unique role in shaping public opinion through their insightful writings.
In our country, political interference in journalism is increasing, and strict regulations are being imposed against the misuse of technology, making independent journalism more challenging. As citizens, it is crucial to establish human rights, social harmony, and national integrity. Social security should go hand in hand with the preservation of human dignity. The constitution and existing laws emphasize the importance of social security. After ensuring social security, questions of human dignity arise. Social and human dignity are intricately linked. Journalists can play a crucial role in ensuring these rights through their reporting.
Newspapers serve as a mirror of society, helping people understand the state, nation, and government. Journalists assist in presenting the hopes, aspirations, achievements, failures, goals, and objectives of the public, making everyone aware. Additionally, newspapers guide the government and opposition parties as the fourth pillar of the state. The media society plays a vital role in upholding governance by creating a sense of responsibility among journalists.
Various discrepancies, injustices, and successes or failures in society are reflected in newspapers. This not only informs the general public but also benefits the government and the country. In the age of digital Bangladesh, news is not just information but also a transformative tool for entertainment and knowledge. In the relentless flow of information, the importance of newspapers and journalism is increasing continuously.
In Bangladesh, there are attempts to control mass media in various ways, including shutting down media outlets or imposing temporary bans. Journalists face pressure from corporate entities or influential figures. Additionally, self-censorship is prevalent due to the fear of legal actions or digital security laws. The cases of journalists facing legal consequences are increasing, creating a chilling effect. Recent incidents, like the mysterious disappearance of a journalist from Narayanganj, raise concerns about the safety of journalists.
Due to these reasons, press freedom is diminishing, and the working environment for journalists is gradually shrinking. Journalism is going through a critical phase, transcending political, technological, and business dimensions.
Writer : Apurbo Ahmed Jewel
