NN Online:
Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has urged the United Nations to take a more proactive role in addressing the growing threat of disinformation and promoting ethical standards in journalism.
In a meeting with UNESCO officials at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday, Yunus emphasized that fake news remains one of Bangladesh’s most critical challenges. “Disinformation is our biggest problem—it comes from both domestic and international sources, and it’s a constant bombardment,” he said.
Yunus called on UNESCO to engage not only with government authorities but directly with media organizations. “Regular media and digital platforms are both spreading disinformation. Independent regulation is essential, and media outlets must be held accountable if they mislead the public,” he added.
“You are the UN—your voice carries weight. We need your support to build trust in the media,” Yunus told the visiting delegation.
The meeting took place ahead of the launch of a joint UNDP-UNESCO report titled “An Assessment of Bangladesh’s Media Landscape.” UNESCO Bangladesh head Susan Vize said the report highlights key areas such as media self-regulation, journalist safety, and aligning national practices with international standards.
UNESCO’s Mehdi Benchelah noted that the report will also address working conditions and safety issues, especially for female journalists.
