Balancing Freedom of the Press and Reasonable Restrictions in Bangladesh: An Appraisal

Abstract

This article explores the balancing of freedom of the press and reasonable restrictions in Bangladesh under existing national laws and relevant international policy instruments. Across the globe, there is unending debate as to indoctrination of free press and reasonable restrictions. Bangladesh is not an exception to the tussle between these two notions. The free but fair press enables public debates and creates essential checks on government powers. The question of reasonable restrictions on press appears at the forefront of discussion as the press is also engaging in serving self-interest or value loaded vested interests vilifying its objectivity, impartiality, and accuracy. Though, the press and other media outlets of the country are partly free, the ongoing restrictions imposed by statutory laws and self-censorship have plunged the media into a stagnated ditch. However, journalists and media activists are gradually striving to overcome the hurdles of restrictions foreseeing a silver lining. On one hand, the country is globally lauded for its exponential progress in terms of economic, social and international goals and has emerged as an Asian tiger. On the other hand, the country is struggling to uphold the spirit of the free press in nourishing a healthy democracy amid good governance that tolerates diverse, dissent, pluralist views and constructive criticism.