Govt to implement institutional strategy for protecting environment journalism: Arafat

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat on Saurtaday (May 4) said since the government is committed to protect environment, it will take an institutional approach to protect the fact-based journalism on climate and environmental issues.

"It is our central commitment to protect environment. If any journalist faces problems, created by so-called local influential people who are responsible for environment ruination, for reporting on environmental issues anywhere, we will ensure full support and protection for him or her," he said.

"If needed, we will take an institutional approach in this regard" added the state minister.

He gave the assurance to journalists at a discussion organized by the Jatiya Press Club (JPC) at Jahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall of the club in the capital, marking the World Press Freedom Day with JPC President Farida Yasmin, MP, in the chair.

JPC General Secretary Shyamal Dutta delivered welcome address in the event while Director of the Climate Change Programme and Urban Development Programme and Disaster Risk Management Programme at BRAC Dr Liakat Ali presented the keynote paper.

Noting that Bangladesh is the worst victim of climate change despite being least responsible for it, Arafat said, therefore, Bangladesh has to work taking the leadership role in the global stage in this regard.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, he said, Bangladesh is always vocal on global platforms and negotiating to realize compensation from the developed countries responsible for damaging environment.

"We are working following an inclusive process, involving the government, civil society and mass media as all are united regarding this issue," Arafat added.

He said Bangladesh became first among 200 countries in achieving SDGs for six years in a row, which proved that this government does not believe in only development but in sustainable development.

"We will organize orientation programmes for government officials at different levels and training programmes for journalists on how they can effectively use the Right to Information (RTI) Act to get information," he added.

Executive Member of the JPC Managing Committee Zulhas Alam conducted the event while BFUJ-Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists President and BSS Chief News Editor (CNE) Omar Faruque, JPC former President Sawkat Mahmud and Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) President Nurul Islam Hasib spoke.