Proper authority needed to determine journalism profession: Information Minister

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that a proper and acceptable authority is essential to determine who is a journalist and who is not. He said such decisions must ensure due reflection of the constitution, existing laws and regulations.

He made these remarks in his policy guidance speech at the 34th meeting of the Press Accreditation Committee and the first meeting of the newly formed committee at the Information and Broadcasting Ministry's conference room at the Secretariat on Thursday (July 23) morning.

Addressing committee members, the Information Minister said every decision must reflect foresight, wisdom and an inclusive mindset. He also stressed that government decisions must be acceptable to all.

Zahir Uddin Swapan said as representatives of an elected government, they must work with equal responsibility towards all citizens, rising above political identities.

Describing the media as a multi-dimensional field, he said it is essential to ensure coexistence of people with diverse opinions, perspectives and thoughts. Therefore, decisions must be taken with an inclusive approach rather than narrowness or bias.

Referring to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry as one of the most strategic and politically sensitive ministries of the state, the minister said even a minor wrong decision could have significant political and social repercussions in the future. Therefore, decisions should consider long-term impact rather than immediate considerations. He said the acceptability of these decisions will largely depend on the experience, wisdom and prudence of the Press Accreditation Committee members. The ability to make acceptable decisions even in difficult and sensitive situations is the true measure of political leadership.

The meeting was presided over by Chief Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed and attended by Information and Broadcasting Ministry Secretary (Routine Charge) Md Shah Alam, senior ministry officials and members of the newly formed Press Accreditation Committee.