Bangladesh, Switzerland discuss media freedom and AI challenges

Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Renggli held talks with Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon and State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury on media freedom, freedom of expression and emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence and disinformation.

According to a Facebook post by the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, the Swiss envoy welcomed the government’s commitment to safeguarding media freedom and stressed that freedom of expression and freedom of the press remain fundamental pillars of any democratic society.

The discussions also covered the role of public broadcasting institutions and the growing challenges arising from misuse of artificial intelligence and the spread of disinformation.

The participants emphasised the importance of addressing such global issues through multilateral platforms.

Ambassador Renggli also highlighted the need to protect journalists to uphold democratic values and strengthen the rule of law.

As a member of the diplomatic network of the Media Freedom Coalition in Bangladesh, Switzerland expressed interest in working closely with the government, media professionals and civil society to advance shared goals related to media freedom and democratic values.