A recent survey has revealed that while 73% of respondents do not read printed newspapers, 59% access online editions via mobile phones. Additionally, 2.5% reported using computers, laptops, or tablets to read digital versions of newspapers. The survey was conducted to gauge public sentiment regarding media coverage during the July movement, which had sparked widespread criticism. The findings also show that 94% of respondents do not listen to the radio.
Overall, 88% of respondents indicated that they use mobile phones to access media, whereas only 7% rely on computers. Among social media platforms, Facebook remains the most trusted news source for 31% of respondents, followed by YouTube at 16.5%. However, when it comes to acquiring knowledge or learning, 42% of participants expressed greater trust in teachers rather than traditional media.
The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) conducted this survey on behalf of the Interim Government’s Media Reform Commission. This is the first nationwide survey of its kind, assessing the usage and trustworthiness of media platforms.
The results highlight the growing reliance on mobile phones over traditional media for news consumption. However, despite this shift, television remains the go-to source for information during national crises. Meanwhile, radio has seen a significant decline in relevance. The survey also reflected public aspirations for an independent, unbiased, and politically unpressured media landscape. Nonetheless, a majority of respondents believe that Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar should remain under government control.
Regarding the declining readership of printed newspapers, 46% of non-readers stated they do not find it necessary. Similarly, over 53% of respondents said they do not feel the need to watch television. However, 65% of those surveyed confirmed that they do watch TV.
Radio, on the other hand, is facing the steepest decline, with 94% of respondents stating that they do not listen to it. Of them, 54% said they do not consider radio to be necessary, while nearly 35% cited the unavailability of radio sets as a reason for not listening.
The survey was conducted from January 1 to January 7 this year, covering 64 districts across the country. Responses were collected from members of 45,000 households aged 10 and above. The findings offer insights into the reach of media, changing news consumption habits, public trust in journalism, and perceptions regarding media independence.
