Press Freedom in Bangladesh vs. The United States: A Comparative Look

 

Photo: Google

Photo: Google

“Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.” – Walter Cronkite

When we talk about democracy, the idea of a free press sits right at the center. Journalists are meant to report without fear, expose wrongdoing, and hold power to account. But here’s the catch: press freedom is not the same everywhere. Laws, politics, and culture shape how “free” journalists really are.

In this blog, I’ll dive into two countries Bangladesh and the United States to see how both promise press freedom on paper but deliver two very different realities.

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What the Laws Say: Bangladesh vs. U.S.

Bangladesh: Freedom With “Reasonable Restrictions”

Article 39 of the Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees freedom of speech and the press. But there’s a twist it comes with the clause: “subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law.”

That phrase may sound harmless, but it gives the government a wide legal doorway to restrict journalists whenever it claims reasons like “public order,” “morality,” or “state security.”

This has allowed controversial laws like the Digital Security Act (2018) to flourish. Officially, the DSA was meant to curb extremism and hate speech. In practice, it became a tool for silencing journalists and critics. Arrests without warrants, harsh jail terms, and vague wording made it easy to target dissent. Writer Mushtaq Ahmed’s death in prison under this law in 2021 remains a chilling reminder.

Although the DSA was repealed in 2023 and replaced with the Cyber Security Act, critics argue that it still carries the same restrictive spirit.

United States: The Absolutist Ideal

Now let’s cross the ocean. The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution says:

“Congress shall make no law… abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.”

This bold wording creates a very different legal culture. In the U.S., the government must carry the heavy burden of justifying any attempt to limit press freedom. Courts have consistently guarded this right, especially against prior restraint when the government tries to stop a publication before it’s printed.

The landmark Pentagon Papers case (1971) cemented this. The U.S. government tried to block The New York Times from publishing secret Vietnam War documents, but the Supreme Court said no. The Court declared that unless there’s a “grave and irreparable danger,” the press must be allowed to publish even if it embarrasses those in power.

Feature	Bangladesh	United States
Constitutional Article	Article 39	First Amendment
Core Wording	“Freedom of the press… subject to reasonable restrictions”	“Congress shall make no law… abridging freedom of the press”
Guarantee Type	Qualified, with many exceptions	Presumptively absolute
Burden of Proof	On journalists to prove restrictions are unreasonable	On government to prove restrictions are necessary
Practical Outcome	Fear, self-censorship, arrests	A robust press that can challenge authority

The Real-Life Struggles of U.S. Journalists

Of course, U.S. journalists don’t live in a paradise either. They face challenges but the difference is in the legal protections they have.

• Defamation suits: Thanks to New York Times v. Sullivan (1964), public officials must prove “actual malice” (reckless disregard for truth) to win. This protects journalists from being easily sued for criticizing powerful figures.

• Subpoenas for sources: Courts sometimes push journalists to reveal confidential sources. Some states protect them with “shield laws,” but there’s still no federal law leaving reporters vulnerable

• National security: While the government often argues secrecy, courts rarely allow censorship before publication. The Pentagon Papers case remains the strongest shield.

• Privacy vs. newsworthiness: Journalists must balance reporting with respecting privacy. But U.S. law usually sides with publishing information if it serves the public interest.

The U.S. struggles are often legal battles in courtrooms not jail cells. That distinction matters.

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What Bangladesh Can Learn

Bangladesh’s press freedom struggles don’t come from one bad law they stem from the very framework of its Constitution. As long as “reasonable restrictions” remain the foundation, governments will keep finding ways to silence the press.

Here are two reforms that could change the game:

1. Adopt an “Actual Malice” Standard for Defamation
   Public officials should only be able to sue journalists if they prove reckless disregard for truth. This would stop politically motivated lawsuits that intimidate the press.

2. Introduce a Comprehensive Shield Law
   Protecting journalists’ right to keep their sources secret is critical. Without it, whistleblowers and insiders won’t dare speak up.

But reforms can’t stop at laws. A truly free press in Bangladesh requires an independent judiciary and a government philosophy that sees journalists not as enemies, but as partners in democracy.

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Bangladesh and the United States both enshrine press freedom in their constitutions. Yet, one sees journalists silenced by vague restrictions, while the other arms journalists with powerful legal shields against government overreach.

The lesson is clear: laws matter, but the philosophy behind them matters even more.
In Bangladesh, press freedom will only become real when the system shifts from controlling the press to empowering it. Because at the end of the day, a democracy without a free press is only democracy in name.

Deadliest Outbreak Ever Seen: Bangladesh's Worst Dengue Epidemic

 

Photo: [Nazmul Islam/Al Jazeera]

Dengue fever is a viral illness spread by Aedes mosquitoes, and it's becoming a big problem in many tropical and subtropical regions, like Bangladesh. Recently, Bangladesh faced its worst dengue outbreak ever, with thousands of people getting sick and many losing their lives. This situation highlights how important it is to figure out what causes these outbreaks and what we can do to fight them properly. 

Dengue was first recognized in Asia during the late 1700s. The disease is caused by the dengue virus, which has four different types known as DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The main mosquito responsible for spreading this virus is the Aedes aegypti. Infected individuals experience flu-like symptoms, which, in severe cases, can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, posing significant risks of fatality. In Bangladesh, dengue was first identified in 1964, but it remained sporadic until the late 1990s when rapid urbanization and population density created favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. 

The rising number and intensity of dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh, especially the severe epidemic in 2024, show that there is an urgent need to tackle the root causes of this health crisis. Even though there have been previous outbreaks in 2019 and 2021, not enough focus has been placed on improving things like infrastructure, public health systems, and community education. The 2024 outbreak revealed serious weaknesses in the country's healthcare readiness, methods for controlling mosquito populations, and how well different organizations worked together in response. To better handle future outbreaks, it’s important for policymakers and health officials to understand the environmental, social, and institutional reasons behind the spread of dengue.

Dengue fever is a major health issue around the world, impacting more than 390 million people each year (WHO, 2023). The regions most affected include Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, and climate change is making the situation worse. As global temperatures rise, Aedes mosquitoes are able to live in more places, and international travel helps the virus spread quickly from one country to another. Countries such as Brazil and India have experienced severe outbreaks recently, leading to a stronger emphasis on controlling mosquito populations, developing vaccines, and improving monitoring systems. By looking at successful strategies from countries like Singapore, which has put strict mosquito control measures in place, other high-risk areas can learn how to better manage dengue fever.

Bangladesh has been facing dengue outbreaks since the early 2000s, but things have gotten worse lately. The epidemic in 2024 was the worst one yet, with more than 100,000 cases reported, which overwhelmed hospitals and led to many deaths. Cities like Dhaka, where a lot of people live close together, became major problem areas because of poor city planning and waste management. This allowed water to collect in places like open drains, trash, and construction sites, creating perfect spots for mosquitoes to breed. Back in 2019, there was another outbreak with over 100,000 cases, which served as a warning that the problem was getting worse. In 2021, heavy rains during the monsoon season caused flooding, making it even easier for mosquitoes to thrive and leading to more infections. The government was slow to react, and there weren’t enough early warning systems or public awareness campaigns to prepare people for the rising number of cases. Plus, many rural areas didn’t have enough healthcare resources or access to testing, making the situation even tougher.

Managing dengue effectively in Bangladesh needs a team effort that includes the government, healthcare workers, and local communities. Important steps to take are:

• Controlling Mosquitoes: 

This involves regular spraying of insecticides in areas where dengue is common and getting rid of places where mosquitoes can breed, like standing water in containers and drains. It’s also helpful to introduce fish that eat mosquito larvae into ponds and other water sources.

• Preparing Healthcare Services: 

During times when dengue cases are high, hospitals should be ready to handle more patients. Healthcare workers need to be trained to quickly recognize and treat serious dengue cases. It’s also crucial to set up special wards for dengue patients and ensure there are enough medical supplies like saline and platelets.

• Raising Public Awareness: 

Communities should be informed about the importance of wearing protective clothing, using mosquito nets, and applying repellents. Schools can play a role by teaching kids how to spot and remove places where mosquitoes can breed.

The dengue outbreak in Bangladesh has revealed serious flaws in the country's public health system. To tackle this issue, it's crucial to take immediate steps to boost prevention efforts, upgrade healthcare facilities, and involve local communities in controlling mosquito populations. Some important suggestions include:

• Creating better waste management systems to limit places where mosquitoes can breed.  

• Improving early warning systems and emergency response plans.  

• Launching public education campaigns to help people understand how to prevent dengue.  

• Investing in research for vaccines and new ways to control mosquito populations.  

By putting these strategies into action, Bangladesh can lower the chances of future outbreaks and develop a stronger public health system that can handle diseases spread by insects.

Reference

• World Health Organization. (2023). Dengue and severe dengue. 

• Ahmed, S., & Islam, R. (2024). The impact of urbanization on dengue transmission in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Journal of Tropical Medicine, 32(4), 256-264.

• Hossain, M., & Rahman, A. (2024). Dengue Fever in Bangladesh: Analysis and Strategies for Future Prevention. Dhaka University Press.

• Nahar, N., & Rahman, M. (2023). The role of climate change in the spread of dengue in Southeast Asia. Asian Pacific Journal of Public Health, 28(5), 1234-1242.

• Khatun, N. (2024). Bangladesh: Response to the 2024 dengue epidemic. Bangladesh Public Health Institute.

• Chia, P. Y., & Lee, L. (2023). A review of global dengue outbreaks: Epidemiology, challenges, and responses. Global Health Journal, 15(3), 145-153.

• World Health Organization. (2022). Global vector control response 2017-2030. WHO Press.

• Hasan, M. R. (2024). Effectiveness of public health campaigns in controlling dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh. International Journal of Environmental Health, 39(6), 775-780.

• Karim, M. F. (2024). Managing vector-borne diseases: Lessons from Bangladesh’s 2024 dengue epidemic. Asia Pacific Medical Journal, 21(7), 456-460.

• Kibria, S. (2023). The role of waste management in controlling mosquito-borne diseases in urban Bangladesh. Environmental Health Insights, 17(4), 34-41.

The Hidden Struggles of Being a Student in Bangladesh

 

photo: ADB/ Shafiqul Alam Kiron

Photo: ULAB website

Being a student in Bangladesh comes with many challenges. While we often hear about struggles like exam pressure and financial problems, there are other issues that are less talked about but still important. Let’s explore these hidden struggles that many students face.

1. The Pressure of Private Tuition
In Bangladesh, private tuition is a common part of education. Many students attend extra classes outside of school hours to prepare for exams, even though they already attend regular classes. This culture of private tuition is so strong that it is seen as necessary for doing well in exams, especially for high school students preparing for the SSC and HSC exams.
However, this creates an inequality between students who can afford tuition and those who cannot. According to a report from BRAC, around 50% of Bangladeshi students attend private tuition, but many from low-income families can’t afford it, which affects their education.

2. The Gender Gap in Education Choices
Although more girls are going to school and university than ever before, there is still a gap in the subjects that boys and girls choose to study. Girls are often encouraged to study subjects like arts, humanities, and healthcare, while boys are encouraged to pursue fields like engineering, business, and technology.
A study by the University of Dhaka found that although women are enrolling in universities more than ever, they are still underrepresented in science, technology, and engineering courses. This limits their career options and keeps them in traditional roles.

3. Lack of Critical Thinking in the Classroom
One of the most significant problems in Bangladesh’s education system is the focus on memorization instead of critical thinking. Students are taught to memorize information for exams rather than encouraged to ask questions, think deeply, or solve problems. As a result, many students graduate without being able to think critically about the world around them.
A report from The Daily Star in 2021 revealed that many employers find graduates from Bangladeshi universities lack problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This is a major issue since these skills are crucial in today's fast-changing world.

4. The Challenge of Digital Distractions
With the rise of online education, students in Bangladesh are spending more time on their phones and computers. While this helps with learning, it also leads to a lot of distractions. Many students get distracted by social media, games, and videos, making it harder for them to focus on their studies.

A survey by BRAC in 2022 found that 72% of students said they are distracted by social media or online entertainment during online classes. This affects their learning and results in less productive study time.

5. The Uncertainty After Graduation
After finishing their studies, many students in Bangladesh face the harsh reality of a tough job market. Even if they have a degree, it’s not easy to find a good job. According to a report by the World Bank, youth unemployment in Bangladesh is high, with many university graduates struggling to find work.

The main reason is that the skills taught in schools and universities do not always match what employers need. Many graduates are not prepared for the real-world job market, which leads to frustration and uncertainty about their future.

6. Mental Health Issues and the Stigma Around Them
Mental health is an issue that is often ignored in Bangladesh, especially for students. Many students face stress, anxiety, and depression but are afraid to talk about it because of the stigma. According to a Bangladesh Mental Health Foundation report, around 40% of students in Bangladesh experience mental health problems, but only a small percentage seek help due to fear of being judged.

The lack of mental health support in schools and universities makes it even harder for students to deal with their struggles. This can lead to more severe problems if not addressed.

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By acknowledging these overlooked struggles, we can break the cycle of pressure and create an environment where students aren't just surviving, but truly thriving—unlocking their creativity, confidence, and the courage to shape their own futures.

The Illusion of Wisdom

(AI Generated picture)

A handful of books don’t make you wise

We have all met them—the self-proclaimed “wise” individuals who walk into every conversation with an air of superiority. They’re the ones who feel the need to “enlighten” everyone around them, even if no one asks for their opinion. They act like they have life all figured out, but dig a little deeper, and their wisdom is nothing more than a shallow facade.

These people aren’t necessarily bad; they just don’t realize how misplaced their confidence is. Their lectures often sound impressive on the surface, peppered with buzzwords and “life lessons” borrowed from a motivational Instagram reel or some out-of-context quote they didn’t bother understanding. But once you think about what they’re saying, you realize it’s either common sense or completely nonsensical.

Why Do They Act This Way?

Overcompensation: Sometimes, people act wise to cover up their insecurities. They feel the need to project intelligence because they fear being perceived as unimportant or uninformed.

Echo Chambers: Many of these “wise” people surround themselves with others who never challenge them. If all you hear is agreement, it’s easy to believe you’re always right.

Lack of Self-Awareness: The funniest part? They genuinely think they’re helping. They believe their unsolicited advice is groundbreaking when, in reality, it’s often irrelevant or outdated.

How to Spot Them

One-Size-Fits-All Solutions: They assume what worked for them (or what they read in a book) will work for everyone else.

Interruptions: They love cutting people off mid-sentence to correct or “educate” them, even if they’re not experts on the topic.

The Problem with Their Behavior

Their lectures often derail meaningful conversations. Instead of helping people  understand or learn, they create an environment where people either feel judged or just tune out. Worse, their “advice” can sometimes be outright harmful, especially if they’re misinformed but insist on acting like they know best. 

How to Deal with Them

Listen Politely (If You Must): Sometimes, it’s easier to nod along than to argue. Let them have their moment, then move on.

Ask Questions: A few well-placed questions can gently expose the gaps in their logic without directly confronting them.

Set Boundaries: If their lectures are draining you, it’s okay to distance yourself or politely shut the conversation down. 

Acting wise doesn’t make someone wise. True wisdom comes from humility, self-awareness, and the ability to listen more than you speak. It’s okay to admit you don’t know everything—nobody does! So the next time someone starts lecturing you with their “profound” thoughts, remember: not every loud voice deserves your attention.

Stay humble, stay curious, and let’s leave the “fake wise” behind.

How Intolerance is Threatening Our Democracy: A Call for Respecting Different Opinions

 

Photo Credit: Nikhil Chakma

Photo Credit: Dhaka Tribune

In today’s world, intolerance towards differing opinions is on the rise. Whether it’s online or offline, people often react aggressively when faced with views that don't match their own. This growing hostility is more than just a social issue; it’s a threat to our democracy, a democracy that we, as students of Bangladesh, have fought hard to secure and protect.

The Problem of Intolerance:

We are witnessing an alarming trend where disagreement is met with personal attacks rather than constructive discussion. Instead of engaging in healthy debates, many individuals resort to trolling, mocking, and belittling others. This behavior creates a hostile environment where people are afraid to express their opinions for fear of being attacked. Such an atmosphere stifles free speech and undermines the principles of democracy.

The Impact on Democracy:

Democracy depends on the open exchange of ideas and respect for diverse viewpoints. When we attack those who think differently, we erode this foundation. In Bangladesh, students have historically been at the forefront of the fight for democratic values and freedom of expression. However, the rise in intolerance threatens to undo the progress we’ve made. If we continue to disregard and silence differing opinions, we risk weakening the very democratic principles that are essential for a vibrant and inclusive society.

The Role of Journalists and Media:

Journalists and media outlets play a vital role in promoting tolerance and healthy discourse. They should:

• Promote Balanced Reporting: Offer fair coverage of diverse viewpoints to help readers understand different perspectives and avoid bias.

• Encourage Respectful Dialogue: Create platforms for constructive conversations where varying opinions can be discussed without personal attacks.

• Combat Misinformation: Ensure accuracy in reporting and address fake news to prevent the spread of division and falsehoods.

• Advocate Media Literacy: Educate the public on recognizing and questioning biased or misleading content to enhance critical thinking and reduce intolerance.

Why We Need to Change:

Accepting different opinions is important for a strong democracy. Disagreements should be seen as chances to learn and grow, not as personal attacks. Instead of reacting with anger, we should have calm and respectful conversations. Listening to others and valuing different views will help us build a more inclusive and fair society.

Intolerance is a real threat to our democracy. As students and future leaders, it's important for us to promote respect and open dialogue. Journalists and media have a key role in this by encouraging understanding and positive conversations. Together, we can protect the democratic values we’ve worked hard for and create a better future for everyone.