Experts call for inclusive process in forming independent media commission

Media industry stakeholders have welcomed the government's initiative to establish an independent media commission but stressed that the body must reflect the voices of journalists, media owners, editors, legal experts, academics, and citizens to be effective.

The call came during a strategic consultation titled “Media Commission: Expectations from the Government,” jointly organised by the Media Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) and the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST), with support from International Media Support (IMS) of Denmark, said a press release.

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Participants said an independent media commission could help restore public trust in the media by balancing press freedom with accountability, promoting ethical journalism, and improving journalists’ working conditions and safety across print, electronic, online media, and news agencies.

Presenting a legal analysis of the draft media commission law, BLAST honorary Executive Director Sara Hossain noted that Bangladesh’s current media regulatory framework is fragmented and faces challenges including journalist safety, misinformation, and declining public confidence in news media.

She said an independent commission could strengthen professional standards, accountability, and media freedom.

MRDI Executive Director Hasibur Rahman said establishing a strong media commission would be a key step toward media reform and highlighted the government's commitment to creating an independent and accountable media regulatory framework.

Former head of the Media Reform Commission and Consulting Editor of The Daily Star, Kamal Ahmed, emphasised that the commission would not achieve its objectives without active stakeholder participation.

He also urged the implementation of key recommendations made by the Commission.

Several speakers stressed the need for editorial independence, stronger self-regulation, financial autonomy for the proposed commission, and transparent procedures for appointing commissioners.

Concerns were also raised about ensuring the commission remains free from political influence.

Prof Dr Gitiara Nasreen of the University of Dhaka said the commission should maintain continuous engagement with stakeholders and establish an effective monitoring system.

Meanwhile, Association of Television Channel Owners (ATCO) Secretary General Abdus Salam suggested revising a proposal requiring media outlets to contribute 1% of their annual revenue to fund the commission.

Other participants highlighted the importance of protecting both journalists and individuals affected by inaccurate or irresponsible reporting, while maintaining a balance between media freedom and accountability.

The recommendations and opinions gathered during the consultation will be submitted to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for consideration in the process of establishing the proposed media commission.