Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said the government has taken initiatives to build a transformed media ecosystem in line with the rapidly evolving digital reality as the country’s media sector is still largely stuck in an outdated analog framework.

“Media sector suffers from structural weaknesses, and because problems were not clearly identified for a long time, it has continued to operate within conventional thinking and practices,” he said. 

Swapon added, “The government now aims to move beyond that and work based on a realistic assessment of the current situation.”

The minister made the remarks while responding to questions from journalists after exchanging views with Deputy Commissioners on the final day of the DC Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital today.

He also mentioned plans for coordinated measures to tackle misinformation and disinformation, modernize information management, and ensure job security for journalists.

Swapon said the problems in the media sector are extensive, noting that it is still rooted in an old analog structure that must be reshaped to fit digital platforms.

The minister sought cooperation from the DCs for its implementation.

He noted that initiatives will be taken to ensure a more responsible and disciplined flow of information in coordination with the media.

The minister said that a large number of individuals and organizations have emerged identifying themselves as journalists and media owners. 

In this context, professional journalists have demanded action against unregulated entities, he said.

 However, describing the matter as sensitive, he said the government will proceed by considering the views of all stakeholders.

Through coordination with relevant stakeholders, effective solutions to the existing problems in the media sector will be achieved soon, he hoped.

The minister also outlined the government’s position on journalists’ salary structures, job security, and professional safety. 

He said policy-level discussions have already been held with NOAB, and meetings with television owners’ associations will be held soon.

He added that journalists are members of a respected profession, and the government will take steps to ensure employers provide fair salary structures, job security, and a safe working environment in accordance with the law.