Bangladesh Emerges as One of the Deadliest Countries for Journalists in 2024

December 12, 2024 – Bangladesh –

According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Bangladesh ranked among the most dangerous countries for journalists in 2024, becoming the third deadliest in Asia. The year was defined by political turmoil and violent crackdowns, particularly during and after the July Revolution—a mass youth-led uprising that ultimately led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.

At least five journalists were killed in Bangladesh in 2024, four of them during July’s nationwide protests. These deaths contributed to a grim regional picture, with Bangladesh and Pakistan together accounting for a significant portion of journalist fatalities in Asia. RSF’s global roundup cited 54 journalist killings worldwide in 2024, with Palestine leading in absolute numbers, but Bangladesh standing out for its deadly repression during civil unrest.

The wave of anti-government protests unleashed unprecedented levels of hostility toward the media. Over 350 journalists were reportedly harassed, and 74 incidents of violence were documented, including beatings, detentions, and destruction of equipment. Authorities filed 113 criminal cases against journalists, many under vague national security laws. In a sweeping move to control media access, 167 journalists had their press accreditations revoked, effectively silencing critical voices and barring them from official events.

Financial intimidation further compounded the repression. At the height of the unrest, Bangladesh’s Financial Intelligence Unit froze several journalists’ bank accounts. This led to operational paralysis for independent media outlets. Notably, prominent investigative journalist Sumi Khan fled the country following threats, while respected reporters Farzana Rupa and Shakil Ahmed were arrested under charges widely seen as politically motivated.

Though the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus promised a commitment to press freedom, RSF and other international watchdogs have warned that media rights in Bangladesh remain under severe threat. The pattern of killings, legal harassment, financial targeting, and forced exile paints a bleak picture for journalists who dare to challenge power.

The events of 2024 serve as a stark reminder that in politically volatile environments, the media is often the first to be targeted. Without systemic reforms and international accountability, journalism in Bangladesh faces a perilous and uncertain future.

Reference – 

https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/367910/rsf-bangladesh-among-deadliest-countries-for