The Editors’ Council in Bangladesh has expressed concern over the intimidation and harassment faced by journalists and media institutions in the country. They emphasized that such actions could endanger press freedom and the democratic process, especially with the national elections scheduled for February 12. The Council highlighted the intrusion of army personnel into a digital media outlet’s office on February 7 as a troubling incident.
The Council stressed that any issues regarding news dissemination should be addressed through legal procedures rather than arbitrary actions. They criticized the negative message sent to voters and media professionals by such incidents, despite previous efforts to restore the reputation of law enforcement agencies. The Council called for responsible reporting and combating misinformation to safeguard the integrity of election coverage.
In a statement, the Editors’ Council urged the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, security agencies, and all stakeholders to prioritize the safety of journalists and uphold democratic values. They also called on authorities and political parties to ensure the protection of journalists covering the upcoming elections. The Council emphasized the risks journalists face during election reporting and the crucial need for their security in the field.
The Editors’ Council expressed optimism that all relevant parties would recognize the significance of journalist safety and take necessary measures to ensure their well-being. The rise in attacks on media freedom and the deteriorating law and order situation in Bangladesh since the interim government took office in August 2024 has raised concerns among media professionals and citizens alike.
