Media Convention in Capital Today to Defend Press Freedom

A major media convention will be held in the capital this Saturday, January 17, to protest organized attacks on freedom of expression and democratic values, and to forge a united front for independent, responsible, and courageous journalism.

The event, titled "Media Convention 2026," is jointly organized by the Newspaper Owners' Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors' Council (Sampadak Parishad).

It is scheduled to take place at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM.

Standing Against 'Mob Violence'
The convention comes at a time when democratic values in Bangladesh have been increasingly targeted by a series of organized violent incidents, often referred to as "mob violence." Organizers have described these attacks on freedom of expression as unprecedented.

Journalists at the event are expected to voice their demands for:

• Protecting the democratic environment and freedom of the press.
• Ensuring the physical safety of journalists on duty.
• Upholding the professional dignity and rights of media workers.

A Unified Platform
The convention has drawn a broad spectrum of participants from across the media industry. Leaders and representatives from the following organizations have been invited to attend:

• Owner & Editor Groups: NOAB, Editors' Council, and Association of Television Channel Owners (ATCO).
• Journalist Unions & Centers: National Press Club, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ), Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ), and the Broadcast Journalist Center (BJC).
• Specialized Reporter Corps: Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB), Economic Reporters Forum (ERF), Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB), and the Photo Journalists Association.

Editors, publishers, and journalists from outside Dhaka, as well as prominent columnists, are also expected to join the session to demonstrate solidarity for the future of the industry.