Dhaka, May 03 (V7N) – The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has strongly demanded the repeal of all so-called "black laws" that restrict freedom of the press in Bangladesh. The call was made by DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel on Friday, ahead of World Press Freedom Day on Saturday, May 3.

In a statement, the DRU leaders said the recent improvement in Bangladesh’s position in the international media freedom index is encouraging, but much work remains. “Journalism in Bangladesh has progressed despite significant challenges since independence. Yet, independent journalism still faces grave threats,” they said.

They pointed out that while journalism has undergone qualitative transformations in areas such as news collection, presentation, technological integration, and the skill development of journalists, there has been no parallel progress in ensuring the institutional or personal safety of media professionals.

“Journalists are still being attacked by law enforcement and political groups during protests, harassed in false cases, abducted, and even murdered. Editors are not spared either,” the statement read.

The DRU leadership emphasized that although the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, many existing laws are often used to muzzle journalistic voices. “There are laws to silence journalists, but none to protect them. As long as these black laws remain, independent journalism cannot thrive,” they asserted.

The leaders called upon the authorities to abolish repressive laws and create a legal framework that protects press freedom and ensures security for journalists.

World Press Freedom Day was established in 1993 by the United Nations General Assembly, following a recommendation from UNESCO’s 26th General Conference. The day serves to celebrate press freedom, promote the core values of journalism, assess global media freedom, and honor journalists who have been killed or persecuted in the line of duty.

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