Based on an official announcement by Dhaka Tribune.
Civil society organization Nagorik hosted a webinar on Monday to observe World Press Freedom Day, examining press freedom and freedom of expression during the Covid-19 pandemic under the theme "Information as a public good."
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, reinforces fundamental principles of media freedom and evaluates press conditions globally. The occasion serves to commemorate journalists who have died in the line of duty and resist interference in editorial independence.
Since the coronavirus pandemic began, at least 80 journalists faced prosecution under the Digital Security Act, over 10 were charged under the Information and Communication Technology Act, and at least 50 were arrested in various cases. In Bangladesh, two journalists were killed, at least 70 injured, 30 assaulted, and five abducted while performing their duties. Nagorik's statement noted that suppression of thought, conscience, and expression fosters political intolerance and violence, while stressing that freedom of expression encompasses multiple basic rights including the right to life and privacy. Photojournalist Shafiqul Islam Kajal identified oppressive laws, particularly the Digital Security Act 2018, as primary factors restricting journalism in Bangladesh.
Source: Dhaka Tribune (https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/245817/webinar-basic-rights-are-interlinked-with-freedom)
