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May 18, 2026 – Bangladesh –
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has assured media representatives that legal cases filed against journalists will be reviewed, following growing concerns raised by press organizations over the use of restrictive laws against members of the media. The assurance came after representatives of the Editors’ Council submitted a list of journalists facing legal action and called for stronger protections for press freedom in the country.
According to local media reports, the Editors’ Council urged the government to take steps to end what it described as the misuse of laws against journalists, particularly legislation that critics say has created fear and pressure within the media sector. The organization also requested the withdrawal of cases filed against journalists for their reporting and expressed concern over the impact of legal intimidation on independent journalism.
During discussions with media representatives, Sheikh Hasina reportedly acknowledged the concerns raised by journalists and assured them that appropriate action would be considered regarding the cases. Members of the Editors’ Council said they provided authorities with a documented list of journalists facing charges and highlighted the broader pressures confronting the profession.
Press organizations in Bangladesh have repeatedly voiced concern over legal provisions that they argue restrict freedom of expression and investigative reporting. Journalist groups and rights advocates say criminal cases, digital security laws, and defamation-related charges have increasingly been used against reporters, editors, and online media workers. Critics argue that these measures contribute to self-censorship and discourage coverage of politically sensitive issues.
The Editors’ Council also called for reforms to laws considered repressive toward the media sector. Media advocates have long criticized legislation such as the Digital Security Act and related legal frameworks, arguing that vague provisions have enabled authorities to target journalists and suppress dissenting views. Rights groups have urged the government to ensure that laws affecting the press comply with international standards protecting freedom of expression.
The latest discussions between government officials and media representatives have renewed attention on the state of press freedom in Bangladesh. Journalists and advocacy groups continue to call for legal reforms, stronger safeguards for independent reporting, and an end to practices viewed as restricting journalistic work.
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