Jahid Ikbal on Digital Media, Journalists’ Rights, Press Freedom, and Community Development in Bangladesh

By Staff Correspondent | Special Interview

In an era dominated by digital transformation, journalism is undergoing a historic shift. Traditional print media is steadily giving way to faster, more interactive, and technology-driven platforms. At the heart of this transformation lies online journalism, which has emerged as the most dynamic, influential, and future-oriented form of media worldwide.

One of the leading voices advocating for digital journalism in Bangladesh is Jahid Ikbal, a senior journalist, media organizer, and social reformer. He is the President of the Bangladesh Online Journalists Association (BOJA), a permanent member of the Dhaka Journalists Union (DUJ), and a Councillor of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ).

Widely recognized as a pioneer of online journalism advocacy and a driving force behind community development in Dhaka’s Nikunja area, Jahid Ikbal has been working relentlessly to establish online journalism as a respectable, professional, and sustainable career.
Profile at a Glance

Born on April 18, 1976, in Nikunja, Khilkhet, Dhaka, Jahid Ikbal is the eldest among four siblings. From an early age, he showed deep interest in literature, social work, and civic engagement. His professional journey includes extensive experience in both national and international media, having worked with several renowned newspapers and digital platforms abroad.

On December 28, 2012, he founded the Bangladesh Online Journalists Association (BOJA) to safeguard the rights, dignity, and professional development of online journalists. Currently, he serves as the Editor of PBA (Photo-Based Agency), a news service specializing in photojournalism and digital content.

Beyond journalism, Jahid Ikbal has played a transformative role in his community by establishing a high school, a public library, and a literary organization in Nikunja—earning him recognition as a community development pioneer.

Interview

Q: Why do you describe online journalism as the “smartest profession” of the future?

Jahid Ikbal:
Online journalism demands intelligence, adaptability, creativity, and technological fluency. A digital journalist today must be a reporter, editor, researcher, content creator, and tech user all at once. This is why the brightest and most ambitious young professionals are gravitating toward online media.
Globally, online platforms are shaping public opinion, driving political discourse, and influencing economic decisions. In the future media landscape, online journalism will be the primary source of information.

Q: What are the major challenges faced by online journalists in Bangladesh?

Jahid Ikbal:
The biggest challenge is lack of institutional recognition and job security. Despite playing a crucial role in information dissemination, many online journalists are deprived of fair wages, legal protection, and professional accreditation.
BOJA was established to unite these journalists under a single platform and advocate for their rights.

Q: How do you assess the future of online journalism globally and in Bangladesh?

Jahid Ikbal:
The future is undeniably promising. Digital media enables instant global reach—news can be shared worldwide within seconds. Online platforms dominate advertising, activism, e-commerce, and public communication.
Bangladesh has witnessed exponential growth in internet usage, reaching grassroots levels. Millions now depend on digital platforms for daily news, making online journalism indispensable.
Moreover, online journalism is environmentally friendly, reducing dependency on paper-based publications.

Q: What initiatives has BOJA taken to promote online journalism?

Jahid Ikbal:
We consider online journalism the oxygen of modern democracy. To expand its reach, BOJA has launched nationwide awareness campaigns, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
Through banners, workshops, and community outreach, we introduce citizens to credible online news platforms. In the near future, we plan large-scale training programs and digital literacy initiatives.

Q: Journalists’ safety remains a global concern. What is your stance on journalist persecution and killings?

Jahid Ikbal:
The safety of journalists in Bangladesh is deeply concerning. The unresolved murder of journalists Sagar Sarwar and Meherun Runi symbolizes institutional failure and a culture of impunity.

Equally troubling is the selective application of digital laws—journalists are swiftly arrested, while powerful offenders often evade accountability. Such double standards undermine press freedom and democracy.

Q: Can online journalism help reduce unemployment among young people?

Jahid Ikbal:
Absolutely. Online journalism is now a prestigious and viable career path. With proper training, young people can find employment in reporting, video journalism, data journalism, fact-checking, multimedia storytelling, and digital editing.

In a country with a large youth population, digital media can play a significant role in reducing unemployment.

Q: How do you view government intervention in the media sector?

Jahid Ikbal:
Government interference in the media is not new—it has existed since the early days of independence. History shows that silencing the press never benefits any government in the long run.

A truly democratic society requires a free, independent, and fearless media.

Q: What is your position on unregulated or “name-only” online news portals?

Jahid Ikbal:
We are not in favor of shutting down any media outlet. Every platform deserves an opportunity to grow. However, a clear and fair regulatory framework will naturally distinguish professional outlets from unprofessional ones.
Merit, credibility, and ethics should determine survival—not arbitrary closures.

Q: Is BOJA investing in professional development and training?

Jahid Ikbal:
Yes. BOJA is preparing short-term and long-term training programs focusing on modern journalism skills—digital security, investigative reporting, ethical journalism, fact-checking, and multimedia storytelling.

We aim to equip journalists to meet international standards.

Beyond Journalism: A Community Leader
Beyond his media work, Jahid Ikbal is widely regarded as a leading force in community development in Nikunja, Dhaka. His initiatives in education, literacy, and cultural development have had a lasting social impact.
His work demonstrates that journalism is not only about reporting events—but also about shaping society and empowering people.

Conclusion

In the rapidly evolving digital age, online journalism stands at the forefront of democratic discourse and social change. Leaders like Jahid Ikbal are working to ensure that this transformation is ethical, inclusive, and sustainable.

His vision positions online journalism not merely as a profession—but as a powerful instrument for truth, accountability, and social progress.