Media Convention 2026 begins in Dhaka

The country’s first Media Convention, organised to protest attacks on freedom of expression and democratic values, began in Dhaka this morning (January 17).

Titled “Media Convention 2026”, the programme started at 10:15am at the auditorium of the Krishibid Institution, Bangladesh complex with the national anthem, followed by the screening of a documentary outlining the purpose of the convention.

The programme is jointly organised by the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors’ Council.

Organisers said democratic values have come under sustained assault in recent times, particularly through incidents of mob violence, posing serious challenges to freedom of expression and democratic principles.

Leaders of various journalist organisations, including the Association of Television Channel Owners, Broadcast Journalist Centre, Jatiya Press Club, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists, Dhaka Union of Journalists, Dhaka Reporters Unity, Diplomatic Correspondents Association Bangladesh, Economic Reporters Forum, Photo Journalists Association and the Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh, are participating in the convention.

Journalists working outside Dhaka, along with editors, publishers, invited media professionals and columnists, have also joined the programme, which aims to present a united stance in support of independent, responsible and courageous journalism.

Journalists are scheduled to speak on the need to protect democratic space and media freedom, ensure the safety of journalists, and uphold the professional dignity and rights of media workers.

Earlier, NOAB and the Editors’ Council organised a protest meeting titled “Bangladesh Under Mob Violence” on December 22 at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka, condemning attacks, vandalism, looting and arson at the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of New Age editor Nurul Kabir.

At that meeting, NOAB President A K Azad announced plans for a mass media gathering, leading to today’s convention.