Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said that reforming the Information Ministry is essential to effectively work for journalists’ welfare. Speaking on Sunday at an iftar and prayer event organized by the Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB) at the Dhaka Reporters Unity auditorium, he emphasized the need for modernization and digital empowerment to provide secure and efficient public services while addressing cyber and technological risks.

The minister noted that frequent changes in ministerial leadership hinder the development of specialized knowledge required for effective administration. He added that the government is considering restructuring the ministry to ensure citizens’ right to free access to information, as directed by the Prime Minister. Swapan also mentioned that journalists’ problems are being documented and that discussions with journalist leaders will be held soon. He highlighted complications regarding the wage board issue due to unclear jurisdiction between the Information and Labour Ministries.

Senior officials from the police, journalist associations, and foreign missions attended the event, which focused on strengthening collaboration between the government and the media community.