A Media Conference organized by NOAB and the Editors' Council held at the Krishibid Institution in the capital. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Jan 17, 2026 (BSS) - Media professionals today urged journalists to unite in defending press freedom, freedom of expression, and democratic values, emphasizing that the profession can only be safeguarded through collective action.

The call came at a Media Conference jointly organized by the Newspaper Owners' Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors' Council, which began around 10 am at the Krishibid Institution in the capital

The event opened with the national anthem, followed by speeches from prominent editors and media leaders.

Nurul Kabir, editor of New Age, said the development of a country's media is closely tied to national progress. "If the media cannot function properly, various rights across society will be obstructed," he said, urging journalists to work together and support broader societal struggles.

The Daily Star editor Mahfuz Anam addressed the government, stressing the importance of independent journalism. "Without the media, no one can speak the truth. Supporting independent journalism ultimately benefits society," he said, adding that journalists must uphold integrity to earn public respect.

Conference participants collectively condemned organized attacks on freedom of expression and democratic values, reaffirming their commitment to independent, responsible, and courageous journalism.

Kaler Kantho editor and president of National Press Club, Hasan Hafiz criticized recent incidents affecting media houses and called for justice for those affected.

Kader Gani Chowdhury, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ), said unity among journalists is the 'most urgent need of the time.' He warned that failing to overcome divisions could leave individual journalists vulnerable to targeted attacks.

Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman noted that media attacks have occurred under every government and stressed the importance of solidarity to confront such challenges.

Leaders from various journalist organizations-including the Association of Television Channel Owners, Broadcast Journalists Center, National Press Club, Dhaka Union of Journalists, Dhaka Reporters Unity, Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Economic Reporters Forum, Photo Journalists Association, and the Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh-attended the conference.