Speakers urged to take action for freedom of expression including journalistic safety and censorship in Bangladesh.
Dhaka, 26 December 2024: In a landmark step to uphold freedom of expression in Bangladesh, VOICE, a rights-based research and advocacy organization, inaugurated the National Taskforce on Freedom of Expression under the Collaborative Action for Freedom of Expression (CAFÉ) project. Funded by Internews and implemented by VOICE, the initiative aims to safeguard press freedom in terms of public access to information and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
The event, held in Dhaka, brought together a diverse group of participants, including journalists, women, ethnic and religious minorities, youth, activists, lawyers, academicians, and civil society representatives. This inclusive representation underscores the importance of a united front in defending freedom of expression and ensuring a democratic environment that respects diverse voices.
During the meeting, several alarming cases were highlighted, shedding light on the ongoing challenges to press freedom in Bangladesh. These included incidents of killings, arbitrary detentions, censorship, physical attacks, and vexatious lawsuits targeting journalists and human rights defenders. The discussions emphasized the urgency of comprehensive reforms to protect journalists and safeguard freedom of expression, particularly in light of the shifting political landscape.
Key speakers at the event stressed that press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy and a fundamental right that must be protected at all costs. They called for immediate measures to address the growing threats faced by journalists and human rights defenders, urging stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure a safe and enabling environment for free expression.
The taskforce’s inaugural meeting also explored actionable strategies to strengthen institutional mechanisms for protecting press freedom. Participants underscored the importance of fostering an open dialogue among all stakeholders, advocating for robust policy reforms, and promoting a culture of accountability to address systemic challenges.
Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, Executive Director of VOICE stated that, “In these challenging times, the National Taskforce on Freedom of Expression stands as a beacon of hope for safeguarding press freedom and fundamental rights. This initiative not only addresses the immediate threats to freedom of expression but also lays the groundwork for a resilient and inclusive democratic future.”
The CAFÉ project, through the National Taskforce on Freedom of Expression, is committed to advancing meaningful change by empowering diverse voices and fostering collaboration among all sectors of society. By addressing pressing issues and advocating for sustainable reforms, the taskforce aims to ensure that freedom of expression remains a promoted and protected right for all.