Form a permanent media commission

The urgent need for reform in our media sector has once again come to the fore, as journalists renew their calls for a permanent media commission to enforce self-regulation of the media industry. The BNP government made an election pledge to deliver this reform, but implementation of that promise is yet to begin. The information minister has now assured that the government will “definitely” move forward with such a plan. While we welcome this intent, our experience suggests that assurances alone are not enough; the government must act quickly to implement it.

Successive governments have historically regulated media, sometimes creating undue pressure. A properly constituted commission could bring all stakeholders, including the government, under a transparent framework. However, the proposal to form yet another consultative committee risks unnecessary delay, since the groundwork has already been done. As senior journalists have noted, the Media Reform Commission has already submitted detailed recommendations on structural reforms and journalists’ rights. These must not be left unimplemented. The government should clearly state which recommendations it will implement immediately and which it will pursue in phases. Without such clarity, the initiative risks being stalled by indecision and bureaucracy.

Moreover, the blurring of lines between ownership and editorial independence continues to erode public trust, particularly when news is suppressed or altered to serve vested interests. This underscores the need for codes of conduct for both owners and editors. However, enforcement must not fall into government hands, as that could open the door for abuse. The media must take primary responsibility for upholding its own standards, with an independent body ensuring accountability.

Furthermore, there has been no visible progress in long-pending cases involving attacks on journalists and media institutions, such as the Sagar-Runi murder case and the attacks on The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Sadly, the former case has been delayed indefinitely, while the home minister’s two-month deadline in the latter caseshas already expired. These cases must not be allowed to linger any further. The government must also ensure that no journalist remains in prison for their work, and that those detained on false charges are released promptly, while genuine allegations are addressed through due legal process. We expect nothing less from the BNP government.

The call for a permanent media commission is about restoring trust, protecting journalists, and strengthening democratic institutions. If the government is serious, it must move beyond rhetoric with a clear roadmap, swift reforms, the release of unjustly detained journalists, and accountability for past abuses. Finally, the government should never see the press as an adversary. Its respect for press freedom must be reflected in laws, policies, and action.