Swapon stresses professionalism to address challenges in media 

Information and Broad-casting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said that many of the existing problems in the media sector would be resolved automatically if genuine professionalism can be ensured in the industry.

"The government is determined to ensure free and accurate information for the people and protect them from misinformation," he said while addressing a view-exchange meeting with a delegation from the Broadcast Journalist Centre (BJC) at the ministry's meeting room at the Secretariat on Wednesday.

During the meeting, the delegation gave a PowerPoint presentation highlighting various challenges and prospects of the electronic media sector.

Highlighting the challenges, the minister said, "Our policy is analog, but the challenge is digital. Existing policies need to be modernised to keep pace with rapid changes in the digital era. The government wants to play the role of a 'facilitator' rather than imposing anything."

Swapan said a "Mass Media Commission" would be formed based on the opinions of all stakeholders to find permanent and sustainable solutions to various issues related to the mass media.

He also emphasised the need for a healthy consensus among all stakeholders in the media sector.

The minister expressed hope that constructive suggestions from stakeholders would help make the commission effective.

BJC Chairman Fahim Ahmed, Member Secretary Ilias Hossain and trustee members Rejoanul Haque, Talat Mamun and Nur Safa Zulhaj were present at the meeting.

The delegation highlighted the need for digitalisation of broadcast media, protection of journalists' professional rights, and reforms in technical and policy frameworks to address ongoing challenges in electronic media.

The minister assured that their proposals would be given due consideration.    �"BSS