The Secretary General of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) has said that there is no alternative to preventing yellow journalism to ensuring objective journalism.
"Information terrorism and yellow journalism are undermining objective journalism," said Quader Gani Chowdhury, Secretary General of BFUJ, while addressing a memorial meeting for the late BFUJ President Ruhul Amin Gazi, held this morning at the Khulna Press Club, organized by the Khulna Journalists Union, as the chief guest.
The journalist leader emphasized the importance of earning the trust of the public through objective journalism, noting that many journalists are losing their dignity due to yellow journalism.
"People trust those who practice good journalism and stand by them in difficult times," he added.
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Chowdhury stated that objective journalism is in serious trouble, but it is essential to remember that objectivity is fundamental to journalism—it's essentially its lifeblood.
"Objectivity means not favoring any party or group, clearly distinguishing right from wrong, and not altering facts in our reporting," he explained. "Journalism should not allow for personal commentary; it should present information backed by proper evidence. An honest and ideal journalist writes without bias. But are we truly doing it or can we do it?
He also pointed out the challenges journalists face in Bangladesh, where, despite constitutional guarantees for press freedom, true freedom remains elusive. "Journalists often find it difficult to express the truth, facing numerous obstacles to establish their credibility," he noted.
Chowdhury highlighted the detrimental effects of defamation, yellow journalism, information terrorism, disinformation, checkbook journalism, false reporting, biased coverage, and embedded journalism, all of which can tarnish a journalist's reputation.
He stressed that defamation is a punishable offense, and no one, including journalists, has the right to damage someone’s dignity.
"It is unjust to label a respectable person as a criminal based on assumptions. No journalist should undermine another’s dignity, yet this happens far too often," he concluded.
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The term "checkbook journalism" may not be widely understood, but it essentially refers to reporting done in exchange for money. Quader Gani Chowdhury noted that many journalists are engaging in this unethical practice as a means of financial gain.
He emphasized that, while striving for quality journalism, journalists must unite against bad journalism. The Union of Journalists is working to ensure that reporters can perform their duties with a sense of security and peace of mind.
Chowdhury pointed out that independent journalism is a cornerstone of democracy, yet it currently faces multiple challenges. Political, economic, legal, and technological obstacles hinder journalists from working freely. Creating a safe and independent environment is crucial for impartial news gathering and dissemination. Strengthening the legal framework to protect independent journalism and ensuring the training and safety of journalists are essential.
He stated that although the country has moved beyond fascism, the demand for independent media remains vital. An independent media policy exists, but many stakeholders are reluctant to implement it, resulting in ongoing challenges for the media landscape.
“Despite the government's awareness of these issues, effective action has yet to be taken,” Chowdhury added.
Md Shahidul Islam, President of the pro-BNP faction of Dhaka Union of Journalists, remarked that without independent journalism, democracy cannot be safeguarded. “To establish a democratic state, media freedom must be assured.”
He added that journalists are unable to work independently due to a lack of rights and job security.
Therefore, it is essential to enact laws that protect journalists.
He acknowledged that journalism is a risky profession; no one can be compelled to enter this field, but those who do must accept the inherent risks.