Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media (BJIM) hosted a symposium on Saturday afternoon at Alliance Française de Dhaka, drawing participation from prominent journalists, media professionals, civil society members, and the general public.

The event opened with a Q&A session featuring Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Honorable Chief Adviser, who engaged the audience on the state of the media landscape in post-uprising Bangladesh. The session was moderated by journalist Sharif Khiyam Ahmed.

A subsequent panel discussion brought together six distinguished media figures—Saleem Samad, Ayesha Kabir, M Abul Kalam Azad, Omar Faroque, Muktadir Rashid, and Zyma Islam—to examine the evolution and ongoing challenges within Bangladeshi journalism.

The conversation spotlighted the profession's resilience and adaptation in the face of shifting political and social dynamics.

BJIM Convenor Sam Jahan presided over the event, with opening remarks delivered by Secretary Muhammad Ali Mazed. In his keynote address, Jahan noted, “This may be the first time World Press Freedom Day is being celebrated so openly in Bangladesh. We are proud to be leading this effort.”

During his remarks, Alam encouraged emerging journalists to continue their work with integrity and courage. “Keep writing with an open mind,” he said. “The more you write, the stronger journalism becomes. Democracy flourishes when the government learns from its mistakes.”

The symposium also recognized BJIM member Tasneem Khalil and his outlet Netra News for receiving the prestigious Shorenstein Award from Stanford University, an achievement that was met with warm applause.

Highlighting the importance of ethical journalism, Muhammad Ali Mazed emphasized the need for self-reflection within the media industry. “Press freedom is not just about resisting external pressures—it’s about confronting our own biases and upholding professional integrity,” he said.

Addressing attendees virtually, Beh Lih Yi, Asia Program Coordinator for the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), praised the role of Bangladeshi journalists in keeping the world informed during critical moments over the past year.

“I hope this new era brings greater freedom and space for your work,” she said, reaffirming CPJ’s support.

The event concluded with active participation from media professionals, human rights activists, students, and the wider public, marking a moment of unity and purpose in the ongoing pursuit of press freedom in Bangladesh.

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