Editors call for unified independent platform to defend press freedom

Editors from 34 newspapers across Bangladesh have called for the formation of an independent and unified editorial platform aimed at restoring fearless journalism and protecting the public’s right to information.

In a joint statement, the editors said the country’s media sector must undergo structural reform alongside the broader national rebuilding process following what they described as a prolonged period of authoritarian and fascist rule.

The statement said the media had faced both institutional and psychological suppression under the previous regime, creating a culture of fear and self-censorship that cannot be dismantled overnight.

“Newsrooms can only return to courageous journalism through editorial institutions that remain accountable to the people’s right to know,” the editors said.

They argued that no individual editor alone can effectively challenge entrenched fear or external pressure, but a collective and uncompromising editorial alliance could strengthen journalists’ confidence and independence.

The editors also stressed that a strong united platform would help resist undue interference from media owners driven by business interests, as well as pressure from governments, political actors and influential groups.

According to the statement, the signatories believe the need for such an organization has become increasingly urgent and pledged to begin organizational efforts soon.

Among those who signed the statement were editors from several leading national and regional newspapers, including Jugantor, Bangladesh Pratidin, Kaler Kantho, Amar Desh, Jaijaidin, Daily Naya Diganta, Protidiner Bangladesh, The Daily Sangram, The New Nation, Wada, Bangladesher Khobor, Daily Sun, Khaborer Kagoj, Daily Bhorer Dak, Dainik Janata, Daily Manobkantha, Rupali Bangladesh, Khola Kagoj, Times of Bangladesh, Banglabazar Patrika, Khobor Songjog, Capital News, Khoborpotro, Nawroz, Daily Gonomukti, Karnaphuli, Notun Probhat, Onirban, Dabanol, Juger Alo, Probaho, Jalalabad, New Times and Loksamaj.