Stress on digital, physical security for journos

Speakers at a daylong workshop in Jashore on Monday stressed ensuring both digital and physical security for journalists. 

The programme titled 'Digital and Physical Security for Journalists' was arranged in Jashore urging the newsmen to practice increased safety and security to protect themselves from digital threats.

Speakers at the workshop observed that as journalists face an unprecedented risk from the spread of hackers and criminal groups and news outlets cover conflict and unrest, steps should be taken to increase safety and access to resources, including equipment and training in physical and digital security.

Organised by Bangladesh NGO Network for Radio and Communications (BNNRC) with support from Internews, the workshop was attended by 20 journalists representing print and electronic media organizations based in Jashore, Magura and Khulna districts, said a press release.

Faraji Ahmed Sayeed Bulbul, the daily Ittefaq Jashore Bureau Chief said digital and physical security is very important in this digital era.

AHM Bazlur Rahman, CEO of BNNRC said the workshop is an opportunity to learn about the digital safety and security and how to protect journalists from digital threats.

"Digital security is a mindset. We strongly believe that this is a context sensitive knowledge driven media training programme that would greatly contribute in preventing digital hazards in the digital era," he said adding that this is a rights-based issue so all should come forward to protect their rights.

Ruhul Amin Rushd, Senior News Editor, Banglavision, Jannatul Munia, Operation Manager, Internews and Kamrul Hasan, senior reporter, Dhaka Tribune, jointly conducted the training.

In the concluding session Deputy Commissioner of Jashore Md. Abdul Awal was present as the chief guest.

"We have to think about digital and physical safety and security of journalist. We have to give importance and for the sake of our safety and security," he said.

Jahid HasanTukun and Ahsan Kabir Babu, President and Secretary of Jashore Press Club respectively were present as special guests.

Manik Miazee of Internews and Farazi Ahmed Sayed Bulbul were also present, reports UNB.