Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
Bangladesh, once home to a vibrant and outspoken media, is now witnessing a sharp decline in press freedom. Journalists face harassment, intimidation, censorship, and arrests for reporting critically on the government or powerful institutions. 

This hostile environment has forced many journalists into exile, seeking safety abroad to continue their work. The erosion of media freedom is not only silencing independent voices but also undermining democracy in Bangladesh. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Since independence in 1971, Bangladesh has had an active press, often playing a vital role in exposing corruption and abuses of power. However, successive governments have attempted to control the media, using censorship, threats, and legal tools. 

The passage of restrictive laws, such as the Digital Security Act (DSA) of 2018, has intensified the repression, allowing authorities to arrest and prosecute journalists under vague charges of spreading 'false information' or 'defaming the state.' 

In recent years, political polarisation and authoritarian tendencies have accelerated the decline of press freedom. 

Page 3 — Methods of Repression Against Journalists 
Journalists in Bangladesh face multiple forms of pressure and violence: 

- Arrests under the DSA: Reporters charged for publishing critical stories online. 
- Physical attacks: Journalists assaulted by security forces or political party supporters. 
- Censorship: Media outlets forced to remove content critical of the government. 
- Surveillance: Online monitoring of journalists’ communications. 
- Economic pressure: Independent outlets face loss of advertising revenue. 

This environment leaves little room for critical or investigative journalism. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Media and Society 
The repression of journalists has led to self-censorship across the media landscape. Many outlets avoid controversial topics, while independent reporters face exile or imprisonment. 

For society, the silencing of the press erodes transparency and accountability, leaving corruption and abuses unchecked. Citizens are deprived of reliable information, weakening democracy and increasing public distrust. 

Internationally, Bangladesh has been ranked poorly on press freedom indexes, attracting criticism from human rights organisations and damaging its global image. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Protecting journalists is essential for restoring press freedom and strengthening democracy in Bangladesh. 

Key steps include: 
- Repealing repressive laws: abolish or reform the Digital Security Act. 
- Ensuring accountability: investigate attacks on journalists and prosecute perpetrators. 
- Independent judiciary: safeguard courts from political influence to protect media workers. 
- Media protections: guarantee editorial independence for outlets. 
- International support: encourage global advocacy for press freedom in Bangladesh. 

Until these reforms occur, press freedom in Bangladesh will remain under threat, and journalists will continue to flee in search of safety and the right to speak freely.