MRDI to Host Bangladesh Journalism Conference 2026 on May 8-9

The Media Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) has announced it will host the 'Bangladesh Journalism Conference 2026', a premier two-day event scheduled for May 8–9. 

Held at the Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden, the conference aims to unite journalists, editors, researchers, and global experts to address the evolving challenges of the profession and strategize for its future.

During a press conference at The Daily Star Centre on Thursday, MRDI Executive Director Hasibur Rahman revealed that the event will feature 12 specialized sessions and over 20 discussants. 

More than 500 participants are expected to attend, including confirmed delegates from over 10 countries such as India, Pakistan, Nepal, Indonesia, Malaysia, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Portugal.

"MRDI wants to hold the conference every two years and hopes such journalism conferences can be organised in Bangladesh in a structured way," Rahman stated. To provide practical utility, the venue will host four dedicated help desks focusing on:

Registration is set to open at 12:01 am tomorrow on a dedicated microsite. While the process follows a "first-come, first-served" model, the organizers will make the final selection. 

Eligibility extends to local and international journalists, researchers, fact-checkers, and civil society members. 

Notably, students wishing to attend must first complete MRDI’s online basic journalism course, with seats awarded to those with the highest scores.

In a move to support regional media, Rahman also announced fellowship opportunities for 15 journalists based outside of Dhaka. 

Applicants must submit story ideas in advance, and selected fellows will receive ongoing mentorship from MRDI. 

The conference is supported by a robust network of partners, including the UNESCO and UN-led BALLOT programme as the platinum partner, alongside the Fojo Media Institute, IREX, Fondation Hirondelle, The Self Investigation, GFMD, and Radisso