‘Journalists must be able to cover issues without fear’

Staff Reporter  :
The Media Freedom Coalition members, comprising of 14 Embassies and High Commission, have urged for ensuring a working environment for journalists without fear and intimidation, while safeguarding media freedom.

“A free and independent press is a vital element in any democracy.? It gives citizens the information they need to hold their leaders accountable and promotes economic development,” they said in a joint statement revealed on Wednesday.

The Embassies and High Commissions are Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States.

“Journalists must be able to cover issues without fear of harassment, intimidation, or violence.? This is necessary to support good governance and ensure that the public is fully informed.? Additionally, journalists must have access to information and be able to protect their sources,” they said.

“As members of the Media Freedom Coalition, we underscore the importance of recognising the value of press freedom and of protecting it.? By protecting media freedom, a society can become more?inclusive and prosperous,” it said.

“Studies have shown that countries with more press freedom have greater economic growth.? The reason for this is simple:? a free press promotes transparency, which increases accountability as it helps reduce corruption and fosters innovation, supporting a?business-friendly environment,” it continued.

It also said that a free press is also essential for promoting human rights and social justice.?

“Journalists play a critical role in exposing human rights abuses and violations, and promoting accountability.? This is true for every country where a free press exists.? Journalists can also promote gender equality by ensuring that women’s voices are heard, and their experiences represented,” it said.

The members of the Media Freedom Coalition in Bangladesh enthusiastically look forward to continuing this conversation with all?parties.

Article 19 of the ?Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that, “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and for seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”

The Media Freedom Coalition consists of like-minded countries that advocate for media freedom and the safety of journalists around the world.?