50 journalists attacked in July, 19 received death threats: MID

In July, 50 journalists were subjected to various forms of abuse across the country, with 91.4 percent of incidents occurring at the district and upazila levels.

The Media Initiative for Development (MID) published these findings in its July 2026 monitoring report on attacks on journalists on Saturday (August 1).

According to the report, 39 incidents of attacks on journalists were recorded in July. Among these, 19 were death threats, accounting for 48.7 percent of total incidents. Physical attacks occurred in 11 cases (28.2 percent), legal harassment or cases in six (15.4 percent), and shootings or attempted murders in three cases (7.7 percent).

MID said death threats are the most commonly used tactic to intimidate journalists and deter them from publishing news. Alongside threats, attacks, legal cases and other forms of violence are being employed simultaneously.

The report noted that 32 of the 39 recorded incidents occurred at the district and upazila levels, with only seven taking place in the capital or metropolitan areas. Journalists working at the local level are facing the greatest security risks, the report observed.

In these incidents of abuse, involvement was reported of local leaders and activists from various political parties, land grabbers, illegal sand extractors, drug traders and, in some cases, government officials and administration members. Exposing corruption and irregularities, reporting on political conflicts and retaliation for published reports were identified as the primary reasons behind the attacks.

Of the 39 incidents, general diaries (GDs) were filed in 18 cases, but only five resulted in formal cases. Only two accused persons were arrested. The report noted that the lack of judicial progress in most cases is further strengthening the culture of impunity.

MID Executive Director Rashedul Hasan said, "Journalists in the districts and upazilas are facing the greatest risks. They are subjected to attacks, threats and harassment on a regular basis. Special attention must be given to them."

He said, "Ensuring a safe working environment for journalists is a constitutional responsibility of the state. At the same time, political parties, law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, media organisations and civil society must work together in a coordinated manner."