A three-day workshop aimed at strengthening cooperation between the police and the media to protect freedom of expression, ensure journalists’ safety and improve access to information concluded in Dhaka.
The workshop, titled “Ensuring Freedom of Expression and Maintaining Public Order to Uphold Democracy and the Rule of Law,” was held at a hotel in Dhaka from June 16 to 18.
The programme, organized by UNESCO in collaboration with Bangladesh Police Headquarters, brought together 27 police officers and 16 journalists to enhance mutual trust, communication and professional engagement on Thursday.
At the workshop, Mehdi Benchelah, Senior Project Officer of the Section for Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists, conducted several lively and engaging sessions.
The main goal of the workshop was to strengthen mutual cooperation between law enforcement agencies and media professionals to ensure freedom of expression, access to information and the safety of journalists.
On the first day, discussions focused on freedom of expression, journalists’ safety and police-media relations. Participants also reviewed international standards, the role of law enforcement agencies in protecting journalists and ways to improve cooperation.
The second day featured discussions on communication challenges, professional engagement and experience-sharing between journalists and police officers. Practical sessions were also held on media relations, crisis communication, information management, social media handling and communication during major events.
On the final day, participants discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between police and journalists during public order situations.
Through group discussions and scenario-based exercises, they explored how to balance freedom of expression and public safety, protect media workers including women journalists and develop practical recommendations for improving police-media relations.
Speaking at the opening session, Additional Inspector General (HRM) of Bangladesh Police Headquarters Khandaker Rafiqul Islam said that freedom of expression and maintaining public order are two fundamental pillars of a democratic society.
He said the challenge is to ensure that these two issues do not contradict each other but instead strengthen one another.
Rafiqul Islam also said that although the roles of the police and the media are different, they are complementary. Both contribute to building a safe, stable and prosperous society.
UNESCO Representative and Head of Office in Bangladesh Dr. Susan Vize highlighted the importance of constructive engagement between law enforcement agencies and the media.
