International Conference on the Role of Journalism in Peace and Cooperation in South Asia
Opinion has emerged that responsible journalism plays an extremely important role in strengthening peace, trust, and mutual cooperation among the countries of South Asia—this view was expressed at an international conference held in New Delhi.
The conference, held yesterday on February 8 at the new Delhi campus of Bharati Vidyapeeth Educational Complex, had the theme: “Role of Journalism in Peace Making and Cooperation in South Asian Countries” (দক্ষিণ এশীয় দেশগুলোতে শান্তি রক্ষা ও সহযোগিতায় সাংবাদিকতার ভূমিকা).
Organized with the cooperation of the SAARC Journalists Forum India Chapter, the conference was presided over by Dr. M. Huda, Director of the institution and a distinguished computer scientist. The chief guest was Raju Lama, President of SJF (SAARC Journalists Forum), along with Secretary General Abdur Rahman, Dr. Aniruddha Shudhanshu (President, India Chapter), member Dr. Smita Mishra, Asif Hasan Nabi (Vice President, Bangladesh Chapter), and journalists, researchers, human rights activists, cultural personalities from SAARC member countries, as well as numerous teachers and students from Delhi University and Bharati Vidyapeeth institution.
At the program, the international members of the Forum, Rinzin Wangchuk of Bhutan and General Secretary of the Pakistan Chapter Husnain Chaudhary, addressed the program through a video message.
The keynote paper was presented by Asif Hasan Nabi, Vice President of the SAARC Journalists Forum Bangladesh Chapter. He stated that despite the geographical, economic, and cultural commonalities in South Asia, the regional cooperation organization ‘SAARC’ is currently stagnant. In resolving this geopolitical deadlock and building bridges of trust among the people, the role of journalists is now the most important.
Journalism in South Asia is not limited merely to news dissemination; rather, it serves as a powerful medium for peace-building and shaping public opinion. Irresponsible reporting can generate tension and confusion, whereas responsible journalism can dispel misunderstandings, promote dialogue, and foster trust.
He further emphasized that in the digital age, fake news and misinformation have emerged as a major threat to regional peace. In this context, journalists must place special emphasis on fact-checking, ethical standards, and the use of restrained language.
The discussants noted that mutual cooperation and regular dialogue among journalists from South Asian countries can contribute significantly to strengthening regional peace and stability. The seminar stressed the need to promote the practice of peace journalism and to enhance the professional standards of journalists.