Photo: BSS

DHAKA, June 21, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury today said the media has lost public trust due to the prolonged disruption of truthful and objective journalism. 

"As many significant national events and human rights violations over the past 17 years were not adequately reported by domestic media outlets, people were often compelled to rely on foreign news organizations for information," he said.

He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of a workshop organized for members of the Political Reporters Forum (PRF) at the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) here.

PIB organized the two-day workshop titled "AI, Fact-Checking, and the Future of Journalism."

Emphasizing that truth is the core strength of journalism, Gani said public confidence in the media has declined because journalism has strayed from the pursuit of truth. 

The defeat of the media means the defeat of the state so that media must be restored to a strong and credible position, he added.

He said unethical journalism, yellow journalism and self-serving propaganda have seriously damaged the dignity of the profession. 

Journalism profession that was once highly respected by the public now faces growing negative perceptions, he said. 

He urged journalists to play a more responsible role in changing this situation.

Referring to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, the journalists' leader said while technology has opened new possibilities, its misuse is also increasing at an alarming rate. 

In particular, there is a growing tendency to influence public opinion through fake images, videos, and misleading information.

He urged journalists to remain highly vigilant against such misuse of AI.

Addressing journalists, he further said, "Standing on the side of truth is the fundamental objective of journalism. By learning from past mistakes and practicing truthful, public-oriented journalism, the media must regain the trust of the people."

PIB director general Faruk Wasif and PRF President Khondkar Kawshar Hossain also spoke at the workshop.