UNESCO and the ULAB Host Landmark Panel Discussion on Journalists' Safety and Media Integrity

UNESCO and the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) came together to mark a historic first for Bangladesh, jointly observing the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists (IDEI) with a powerful panel discussion titled "Courage and Consequence: Journalism’s Unyielding Fight for Justice." Organized by ULAB’s Center for Critical and Qualitative Studies (CQS), the event brought together prominent voices from the fields of journalism, academia, and advocacy to shine a light on the urgent need for journalist safety and media integrity in an increasingly complex global landscape.

The distinguished panel included speakers such as UNESCO Bangladesh Country Representative Dr. Susan Vize, Professor Salimullah Khan, Director of ULAB’s Center for Advanced Theory, Ashraf Kaiser, Founder of Benchmark Limited, Faruk Wasif, Director General of the Press Institute of Bangladesh, Tasneem Khalil, Editor-in-Chief of Netra News, Jannatul Mawa, Photographer and Activist, and Zyma Islam, Senior Reporter at The Daily Star. Together, they tackled critical topics, from the fight against impunity in crimes against journalists to the necessity of legal and societal protections in hostile environments.

"Since 2006, over 1,700 journalists have lost their lives globally, with nearly 90% of these cases still unsolved," Professor Salimullah Khan said in his opening remarks, setting a somber but resolute tone. “This alarming reality calls for immediate, coordinated action to protect journalists and uphold press freedom worldwide.”

UNESCO’s Dr. Susan Vize highlighted the organization’s commitment to ensuring press freedom, especially for those reporting from high-risk areas. “Journalists are the backbone of democracy. When their freedom is threatened, society itself is at risk,” she stated. “IDEI serves as a call to action, reminding us that combating impunity for crimes against journalists requires a unified global response.”

Ashraf Kaiser addressed the evolving challenges of the media landscape, noting “the rise of a 'media mafia' seeking to undermine independent journalism.” He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, especially as media intersects with public relations and activism.

Adding a personal perspective, Tasneem Khalil shared her experience in investigative journalism, describing the hardships faced by journalists in hostile settings. “The pursuit of truth shouldn’t endanger one’s life, yet this is a reality for many,” she said. “For those working to expose corruption and demand transparency, the risks are high, and the cost is often steep.”

Faruk Wasif stressed the role of ethical journalism, calling on media organizations and the state to foster safe environments for journalists. “A democracy cannot thrive without independent, principled journalism,” he remarked, urging a strong framework for journalist protection and media independence.

Apurba Jahangir remarked, “In today’s world, journalism requires not only the courage to report truthfully but also the resilience to navigate a landscape where integrity is constantly under threat. For those who dedicate themselves to this profession, the risks are often deeply personal. It is essential that we stand with them, push for stronger protections, and create an environment where they can work without fear, because when journalists are silenced, the voice of the people is silenced as well.”

Zyma Islam shared insights from her own reporting on high-stakes topics like human rights and state accountability. “I’ve covered issues like extrajudicial killings, facing immense risk. Journalists must have protections to pursue these stories without fear of retribution,” she noted.

In his closing remarks, Professor Sumon Rahman, Director of CQS, reinforced the importance of supporting journalism’s relentless pursuit of truth. “As we reflect on the courage and sacrifice of journalists around the world, let us commit to a future where freedom of expression thrives and justice prevails.”

Participants departed with a shared resolve to champion journalist safety and media integrity, recognizing the indispensable role of a free press in safeguarding democracy and justice globally.