In a historic first, editors, journalists, and media leaders from across Bangladesh gathered on Saturday for the "Media Convention 2026," issuing a powerful collective warning: democracy cannot survive without a free, fearless and independent press.

Jointly organized by the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors’ Council at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh auditorium, the event focused on the growing challenges to freedom of expression and the safety of journalists.

Opening the convention, Nurul Kabir, President of the Editors’ Council and Editor of New Age, asserted that journalism is rooted in democratic aspiration, which "can never be a crime."

He cautioned that any attempt to silence media institutions—whether through restrictive laws, intimidation, or force—is a direct assault on the rights of the entire society.

"If newspapers and other media outlets cannot function independently... fundamental rights across society will inevitably be curtailed," Kabir remarked, calling for unity against suppression.

Mahfuz Anam, Editor of The Daily Star, addressed the government directly, arguing that independent journalism is actually a state's greatest asset.

He noted that while bureaucrats and party colleagues may only offer praise, independent media is the only institution that provides the unvarnished truth. "Government, remember—no one will tell you the truth... Independent journalism is the only institution that tells you the truth," he emphasized.

Adding to the call for solidarity, Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman urged journalists to set aside ideological differences to protect the profession and personal safety.

"It is crucial to come together, to remain united, to stand by each other and to demonstrate solidarity and empathy," he stated, describing the convention as a vital step toward safeguarding the professional dignity of media workers.

The convention, which drew leaders from the Jatiya Press Club, BFUJ, DUJ, ATCO and various reporter forums, highlighted recent threats such as mob violence as serious obstacles to democratic principles.

The gathering concluded with a unified stance: for Bangladesh to thrive as a democracy, its media must remain an active and courageous watchdog.

With Inputs from UNB