UNESCO-IPDC (International Programme for the Development of Communication) and News Network jointly launched a programme for promoting safety of journalists in Dhaka today, with a strong call to address the growing threats faced by journalists and to put an end to the impunity for crimes committed against media professionals.
Speaking at the inaugural event held at the YWCA Training Centre in the capital, Dr Suzan Vize, UNESCO head in Bangladesh, emphasised the importance of practicing safety measures to safeguard journalists from the frequent risks and attacks they face.
She urged both government and non-government organisations to collaborate in creating a safer environment for media personnel.
"Ensuring the safety of journalists is not only crucial for their well-being but also vital for the preservation of democracy and freedom of expression," she said.
She further called for comprehensive training programmes and support services, enabling journalists to better navigate potential dangers. By fostering a culture of safety and accountability, she said, "We can empower those who play a critical role in informing the public and holding power to account."
The event highlighted, referring to Committee to Protect Journalists data, that between 1992 and 2025, a total of 38 journalists were killed in Bangladesh. Among these cases, the motives behind 26 deaths were confirmed to be directly related to their journalistic work, while the remaining 12 cases are yet to be definitively linked.
Shahiduzzaman, editor and CEO of News Network, said, "Countless journalists have lost their lives, yet justice is often delayed, allowing many perpetrators to escape accountability. Women in journalism face even greater risks, confronting persistent insecurity in the field. They are frequently subjected to harassment, abuse, and various forms of assault, simply for doing their jobs."
With support from UNESCO-IPDC, News Network is implementing this initiative across four divisional headquarters -- Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi, and Rangpur. The programme will provide training to around 100 journalists from both national and regional print and electronic media, focusing on digital and physical safety, gender-sensitive reporting, and legal protections.
Approximately 30 participants -- including journalists, journalist union leaders, civil society representatives, human rights defenders, and media experts -- attended the inaugural ceremony.
Noore Jannat Proma, head of the communications and information at UNESCO Dhaka, also spoke at the event. The programme was moderated by Professor Dr Sheikh Mohammad Shafiul Islam of United International University (UIU).
