Free flow of information needs objective data: Info Minister

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Sunday said that accurate and objective data is the most essential requirement for ensuring the free flow of information.

He noted that while freedom of information is important, preventing misinformation and maintaining reliable content remains a major challenge for both society and the state.

He made the remarks as chief guest at a seminar marking World Press Freedom Day 2026 at North South University in the capital, organised by the university’s Media, Communication and Journalism (MCJ) Department.

The minister said free flow of information is as vital to human civilisation as oxygen is to life, stressing that a society cannot function without authentic information.

He warned that just as lack of oxygen leads to harm, misinformation and disinformation are increasingly “poisoning” society in the digital age.

Swapon added that although information is now abundant, verified and accurate reporting is becoming scarce, turning misinformation into a global crisis.

He also pointed to gaps in accountability within political and social systems and said ensuring information integrity requires a strong and modern regulatory framework.

According to him, the government does not intend to act as an authoritarian body but as a facilitator to ensure smooth and responsible information flow.

The minister further said that work is underway on a long-term plan to promote accurate information and a free media environment, including building a national network involving journalism departments, teachers and students.

The seminar was presided over by NSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury. Speakers included NSU Board of Trustees Chairman Aziz Al Kaiser, Editors’ Council General Secretary and Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, NOAB President and Manabzamin Editor-in-Chief Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, and UNESCO Bangladesh Representative Susan Vize.

Other speakers said journalism is currently facing serious challenges, with misinformation on social media further complicating the media landscape and undermining mainstream journalism.

The event also featured remarks from NSU officials, a keynote presentation by MCJ Department Chair Dr. S.M. Rezwan Ul Alam, and a discussion by BNNRC CEO AHM Bazlur Rahman. Faculty members and students also took part in the programme.