Misinformation is Today’s Biggest Challange : Info Minister

Online Desk : Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said misinformation and disinformation have become the biggest challenges in the modern information age, replacing the problem of limited access to information that existed in the past.

Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion marking the Department Day of the Mass Communication and Journalism Department at Dhaka University (DU), the minister said the rapid flow of information has been accompanied by the systematic spread of false and misleading content aimed at shaping public perception.

“In the era of information overflow, misinformation and disinformation are being spread systematically to influence public perception,” he said.

The event, held at the Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury Auditorium, was also attended by DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr A B M Obaidul Islam and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir as special guests.

Responding to questions from students, Swapon said information distortion was possible even in the past when information was limited, but technological advances have significantly increased the scale and impact of misinformation.

He said disinformation campaigns are often strategically used in modern political processes to influence swing voters and shape public opinion during national elections in different countries, making perception management a key area of concern.

The minister acknowledged that press freedom remains an important issue but said the growing spread of fake and distorted news poses an even greater challenge. He added that the government is working to tackle the problem by using technology and modern tools despite existing limitations.

Swapon also highlighted concerns over the professional security and welfare of journalists, saying many media organisations provide identity cards without ensuring proper salaries or financial protection for their employees.

He stressed the need for a consensus among media owners, editors and journalists to establish a structured framework that ensures financial security and professional dignity for media workers.

The minister further said work on forming a Media Commission is progressing following initial consultations with key stakeholders. He added that recommendations from previous media reform reports will be reviewed to help develop standard journalistic guidelines and strengthen the country’s media sector.