Media convention begins

The media convention has begun in Dhaka today, Saturday, shortly after 10:15 am, with the aim of protesting against organised attacks on freedom of expression and democratic values, and of demonstrating a united stance in support of independent, responsible and courageous journalism.

The event is being jointly organised by the Newspaper Owners Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors Council.

At the start of the event, the national anthem was performed, during which all participants stood to pay their respects. This was followed by the speech session.

The programme, titled “Media Convention 2026”, is being held at the auditorium of the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) in the capital and will continue until 1:30 pm.

In recent times, democratic values and Bangladesh as a whole have been repeatedly affected by organised violence (mob violence).

Such attacks on freedom of expression and democratic principles are unprecedented.

Journalists will present their views with the aim of safeguarding the democratic environment and independence of the media, ensuring the safety of journalists and upholding the professional dignity and rights of media workers.

All members of NOAB and the Editors Council, along with representatives of the Association of Television Channel Owners, the Broadcast Journalist Centre, the National Press Club, the Bangladesh Federal Journalists Union, the Dhaka Journalists Union, the Dhaka Reporters Unity, the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, the Economic Reporters Forum, the Photojournalists Association, the Crime Reporters Association, as well as leaders of various other journalists organisations and journalists and editors–publishers working outside Dhaka, have been invited to attend the assembly.

Invited media representatives and columnists will participate in this programme, which aims to stand united in support of responsible and courageous journalism.