“New Bangladesh: Need Freedom of Speech, Unrestricted Access to Information”

Concept Note

Introduction

Through unprecedented sacrifices, the indomitable youth and student generation of this country brought down the authoritarian government and inspired the people to build a "New Bangladesh." One of the core aspirations of this "New Bangladesh" is freedom of speech and the right to hold opposing views, which inherently require the free flow of information and access to it. Ensuring the unrestricted flow of information is an integral part of the vision to build a transparent, accountable, well-governed, and corruption-free Bangladesh. The free flow of information helps the people become part of the power structure, empowers them, and plays a crucial role in establishing good governance through accountability in the state framework. One of the tools used by the authoritarian government to extend its power was the suppression of freedom of speech and dissent, along with the deliberate manipulation of falsehoods and the management and flow of information. Every possible tactic and method was used to hinder the free flow of accurate information. A glaring example of this is the inclusion and arbitrary use of repressive provisions in various laws and regulations continuously enacted. Furthermore, to safeguard the right to information, the appointment of loyal party members and ideologically aligned individuals to relevant institutions, especially the Information Commission, has intentionally obstructed the work of those playing a catalytic role in normalizing information flow. Recently, the Chief Adviser of the interim government, in his speech to the nation, declared that "the free flow of information and freedom of the media will be ensured," which has instilled hope in us. Therefore, under the theme "New Bangladesh: We Demand Freedom of Speech, We Demand Unrestricted Access to Information," TIB is celebrating "International Right to Know Day" this year.

Culture of Secrecy: Bangladesh

The culture of information secrecy is nothing new to us. However, in recent years, the authoritarian government, in pursuit of its vested interests, has expanded the spread of state-sanctioned falsehoods and disinformation from the highest levels of government to every corner of the state apparatus, in a manner more intense and far-reaching than ever before. A glaring example of this is the spread of government lies and obstruction of accurate information flow during the anti-discrimination movement. In an effort to suppress the movement, human rights violations were committed by shutting down the internet to conceal the truth and information. Even during these internet shutdowns, various absurd reasons were cited. Falsehoods were spread regarding the killed and injured. From the three elections held during the past government to development activities, even statistics on GDP and export earnings, various instances of disinformation have been witnessed. The government's malicious attempts to hide the correct information about loan defaults, money laundering, and the fragile state of the banking sector were widely known. In addition to imposing a ban on journalists entering the Bangladesh Bank, attempts were made to conceal the identities of influential loan defaulters. Unfortunately, we do not even have accurate statistics on the money that has been laundered abroad.

For the complete concept note in Bangla, click here.