Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has called for closer cooperation with Australia in strengthening Bangladesh’s media sector and addressing the growing risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI) and digital misinformation.
The request was made during a meeting with Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Susan Ryle, who paid a courtesy visit to the minister at his office in the Secretariat on Thursday.
During the discussion, Swapon highlighted the increasing global challenge posed by the spread of misinformation and disinformation through AI-driven technologies and social media platforms. He said the rapid advancement of digital tools has created new risks that require coordinated efforts, technological expertise and effective regulatory frameworks to address.
The minister expressed Bangladesh’s interest in benefiting from Australia’s experience and technical knowledge in developing mechanisms to prevent the misuse of emerging technologies. He also sought Australian support for the government's plan to establish a strong and independent media commission aimed at promoting professionalism, accountability and institutional development in the media sector.
Swapon briefed the Australian envoy on several welfare-oriented initiatives undertaken by the government, including the Family Card and Farmer Card programmes. He noted that these initiatives have played an important role in supporting citizens and contributing to economic stability and social protection.
The minister said the government is committed to undertaking qualitative and institutional reforms in the media landscape, with the proposed media commission expected to play a key role in strengthening governance and ensuring greater independence within the sector.
Responding to the minister’s remarks, High Commissioner Susan Ryle praised Bangladesh’s social welfare programmes and their contribution to public well-being. She also expressed Australia’s willingness to provide technical and technological assistance in tackling the adverse effects of information technology and supporting efforts to establish the proposed media commission.
Officials from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Australian High Commission in Dhaka were also present at the meeting.
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