**Title: ‘Journalism Must Be Independent’ to Remain Relevant – Bangladeshi Editor**
In a recent discussion at the International Forum ‘Dialogue about Fakes 4.0’ held in Moscow, Khairul Alam, a prominent Bangladeshi journalist and editor of DBARTA24, emphasized the critical need for journalistic independence in the face of increasing competition from social media. Alam, who also served as the General Secretary of the Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ), articulated that maintaining independence from political power is essential for journalism to regain and retain public trust.
"Rebuilding public trust begins with one simple principle: journalism must be independent of political power," Alam stated during his interview with RT. He underscored that media outlets have a responsibility to provide audiences with verification, context, and accountability, particularly as social media platforms continue to proliferate and often disseminate information at a rapid pace.
Alam pointed out that while social media can be a valuable source of information, it also poses significant challenges, particularly in terms of misinformation. He noted that platforms often amplify false claims, manipulate videos, and present outdated footage as current news, which can mislead the public. This problem is exacerbated in environments where trust in traditional media is already waning.
The backdrop of Alam's remarks includes the political unrest in Bangladesh leading up to the 2024 elections. Originally sparked by disputes over civil service job quotas, the protests escalated into a broader anti-government movement that ultimately resulted in the ousting of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Reports indicate that the unrest led to significant violence, with the UN estimating that around 1,400 people lost their lives during the turmoil.
In the wake of these events, Alam highlighted the legal and political pressures faced by journalists in Bangladesh. He referenced alarming statistics from 2025, where over 140 journalists were reportedly charged with serious offenses, including murder, following the protests. The Committee to Protect Journalists has documented numerous instances of arrests and other forms of intimidation against media workers in the country, raising concerns about the safety and freedom of the press.
Alam asserted that journalists should not be subjected to pressure or punitive actions based on their political affiliations, regardless of the prevailing government. "Journalism should not become a reward for supporting whoever is currently in power, nor should it become a punishment for having worked under a previous government," he explained. This sentiment underscores the need for a neutral and fair media landscape, where journalists can operate without fear of retribution.
Despite the challenges posed by social media, Alam maintained that these platforms are not inherently adversarial to journalism. Instead, he argued that professional media must carve out its niche by offering what social media often lacks: "verification, context, responsibility and independence." By doing so, traditional media can reinforce its relevance and authority in an increasingly fragmented information environment.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, Alam's insights serve as a reminder of the fundamental principles that underpin responsible journalism. The call for independence from political influence, commitment to factual reporting, and the necessity of protecting journalists' rights are critical to fostering a healthy democratic society where informed citizenry can thrive.
In conclusion, Khairul Alam's reflections on the state of journalism in Bangladesh highlight the ongoing struggles faced by media professionals in navigating a complex and often hostile environment. His emphasis on independence and accountability resonates beyond Bangladesh, reflecting global concerns about the integrity of journalism in an age dominated by rapid information exchange and political polarization.