Journalists Should Report Facts, Not Act as Activists: Information Minister

Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said that the primary responsibility of journalists is to report facts objectively, not to act as activists for any particular cause or group. He also emphasized that meaningful journalism cannot exist without the freedom to criticize the government.

The minister made the remarks on Saturday morning while speaking at a panel discussion during the Bengal Delta Conference 2026 at Hotel InterContinental Dhaka.

The session, titled "Are South Asian Media Facing the Same Threats in Different Forms?", focused on media freedom, the professional responsibilities of journalists, and the challenges facing the news industry across South Asia.

Addressing the discussion, Zahir Uddin Swapon said he could not imagine effective journalism without an environment where the government can be openly criticized. He stressed that the ability to question those in power is an essential component of a free and democratic media.

Drawing a distinction between journalism and activism, the minister said journalists should concentrate on gathering, verifying, and presenting information accurately rather than becoming advocates or activists for any side.

He further remarked that journalism should not be confined by geographical boundaries, adding that the pursuit of truth and information transcends national borders.