DHAKA, April 22, 2026 (BSS) – Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said that gender sensitivity in society and the state cannot be ensured through isolated efforts; rather, it requires the institutionalisation of a culture of accountability across the media and political spheres. “Lack of gender sensitivity is not merely a psychological issue of men or women; it reflects a broader deficit in our collective values. If professionalism and accountability are ensured in politics and the media, society will naturally become more gender-sensitive,” he said. The minister made the remarks while addressing the unveiling of the manual titled ‘Gender Sensitivity in Journalism’ at a seminar held at the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) in the capital. PIB, Jago Foundation and Plan International Bangladesh jointly organised the event. Swapan said both politicians and media professionals must remain constantly engaged with the people. The goal of politicians is to exercise state power and serve the public, while the role of the media is to provide news. “If there is no proper accountability in these two arenas, public interest will be undermined,” he added. He said, “Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s government believes in independent media, as only a strong and independent media can hold political power accountable.” Regarding the impact of mobile journalism and social media, the information minister said, “Nowadays, anyone with a smartphone can create content. Although many mock it and call it ‘mojo’ journalism, it is in fact a global challenge.” Noting that the government does not want to impose unilateral decisions to address the existing problems in the media sector, the minister said, “The Prime Minister has already held a meeting with newspaper owners. Meetings will also be held with editors and television owners in phases. Necessary steps will be taken to resolve the sector’s problems based on stakeholders’ proposals.” Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana spoke as the special guest at the event, with PIB Director General Farooq Wasif in the chair. Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Shabnam Mostari and Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh Kabita Bose also spoke.