Freedom of Journalism

All laws related to criminal defamation, such as Sections 499, 500, 501, and 502 of the Bangladesh Penal Code of 1860, and Section 29 of the Cyber Security Act of 2023, should be repealed. Along with that, a system can be introduced to entrust the regulatory body, the proposed Media Commission, with offenses related to defamation involving journalists. The power given to the government to forfeit newspapers under Sections 99A and 99B of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, is contrary to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Therefore, it should be repealed.

Reform Proposed
Total Reforms Being Tracked
3
02
Reform Proposed
The reform idea or commitment is publicly articulated.
Reform Proposed
00
Reform Initiated
Preliminary steps are taken (e.g., circulars or notices by relevant...
Reform Initiated
01
Legal and Policy Framework
The reform is codified in policy, law, or regulation.
Legal and Policy Framework
00
Operationalisation
Institutional or administrative mechanisms are established for the reform delivery.
Operationalisation
00
Action Implementation
Tangible actions showing visible progress or outcomes are taken.
Action Implementation
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Glossary

Last Updated: 14th December 2025

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