Information Minister Calls Misinformation Fight a ‘War’ in Digital Era

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has described combating misinformation and disinformation as a major challenge, stating that “fighting misinformation has turned into a war for the Ministry of Information.” He also emphasized that ensuring media freedom while curbing the spread of false information requires simultaneous efforts.

The minister made these remarks to journalists on Monday, April 27, following a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen.

He said that discussions highlighted how combating misinformation and disinformation (false and misleading information) is a major challenge worldwide, and particularly for Bangladesh. “From the perspective of the Ministry of Information, this has now turned into a war for us,” he added.

The minister noted that digital platforms, while offering vast opportunities, are increasingly being exploited by purveyors of false information, creating serious problems in social, state, and civic life. “In this context, how the state and government can protect citizens from misinformation has become a major challenge,” he said.

Zahir Uddin Swapan further stated that while media freedom was once the primary concern, the focus has now shifted to ensuring “balanced freedom.” He explained that both institutions and individuals are exercising freedom in ways that are sometimes misused, particularly on social media, causing significant harm to ordinary citizens. “Therefore, the Ministry of Information must simultaneously ensure media freedom and protect the public from misinformation,” he said.

Regarding the meeting, the minister said that the United States is Bangladesh’s largest destination for garment exports, its biggest donor in humanitarian assistance, and a key partner in addressing the Rohingya crisis. “Considering this, we want to take our friendship further forward,” he added.

He also said that both Bangladesh and the global community are currently facing a challenging media environment. “We discussed how a technologically advanced country like the United States is managing this new ecosystem, and how we can exchange cooperation in this regard,” he said.

The minister noted that the United States Federal Commission for Media’s functioning was discussed, and that the U.S. side would provide moral support in advancing Bangladesh’s commitment to establishing a media commission.

He further said that both sides—the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh and the Ministry—will jointly explore areas for cooperation in the media sector.

In response to a question, Zahir Uddin Swapan said that Bangladesh aims to utilize U.S. experience in areas ranging from policy support to technological assistance. “They have expressed their willingness to share that experience with us. The Ministry and the Embassy will work together in the future to determine how best to implement it,” he added.

DBTech/AI/EK/OR