In Bangladesh, where the media landscape has undergone significant transformations over the past few years, television journalists face a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Television journalism is a dynamic and demanding profession that plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. Television journalism in Bangladesh has undergone significant changes since its inception in 1964 with the launch of state-run Bangladesh Television (BTV). Over the decades, private channels, digital technology, and shifts in audience behavior have transformed the industry. As the nation grows economically and technologically, the future of television journalism holds great potential.
The rise of digital platforms has forced traditional TV journalism to evolve. Integration with online media is now essential for survival. Channels like Independent TV, News 24, DBC News, Jamuna TV, Channel I, Somoi TV, and Ekattor TV are already utilizing digital platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and their websites to reach larger audiences. The future will see further convergence between television and online media, creating hybrid models of content delivery. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation tools are revolutionizing content creation and distribution. AI can assist in data analysis, fact-checking, and even content customization based on viewer preferences. Automation in news production will reduce costs and improve efficiency, allowing journalists to focus on investigative and in-depth reporting. The shift to HD broadcasting has already enhanced the viewing experience. In the future, AR and Virtual Reality (VR) could become integral to storytelling, offering immersive experiences in news reporting. For example, viewers might virtually “visit” disaster-hit areas or election rallies through AR-enhanced broadcasts.
Audiences in Bangladesh are increasingly demanding content that resonates with their regional and cultural contexts. Channels focusing on hyper-local news and niche topics like agriculture, environment, and technology will gain traction. With growing public awareness and demand for accountability, investigative journalism has a critical role in the future. There is a growing appetite for in-depth and investigative journalism in Bangladesh. Stories that uncover corruption expose injustices, and highlight social issues are increasingly valued by audiences and can significantly impact society. However, this requires a supportive environment, including press freedom and financial backing. The median age of Bangladesh’s population is approximately 28 years. To engage this demographic, television journalism must adopt storytelling styles that resonate with young viewers, such as short, visually appealing segments and interactive programs. Citizen Journalism, facilitated by smartphones and social media, is becoming a valuable resource for newsrooms. Television channels can collaborate with citizens to access ground-level reporting, particularly during crises.
Bangladeshi television channels have the potential to cater to the global diaspora. By producing content in English or subtitling local stories, they can reach international audiences, promoting Bangladesh’s culture and perspectives. As a developing country, Bangladesh faces challenges in areas like healthcare, education, and climate change. Television journalism can play a pivotal role in highlighting these issues and fostering public discourse on solutions. The rapid growth of private television channels in Bangladesh has created numerous opportunities for journalists. With more platforms, journalists have access to diverse roles, from news reporting to anchoring and production. The integration of digital technologies into television journalism offers exciting opportunities. Journalists can use social media and digital platforms to reach broader audiences, engage with viewers, and deliver real-time updates.
Several national and international organizations offer training and capacity-building programs for journalists in Bangladesh. These initiatives equip them with modern skills, including data journalism, video editing, and fact-checking, enhancing their professional growth. Bangladeshi journalists increasingly collaborate with international media outlets, enabling them to report on global issues, share stories with international audiences, and gain exposure to diverse journalistic practices. Television journalists can experiment with emerging storytelling formats, such as immersive documentaries, interactive visuals, and virtual reality. These formats enhance audience engagement and make complex stories more accessible. Television journalism in Bangladesh has the potential to advocate for marginalized communities and amplify their voices. By highlighting issues such as gender inequality, child rights, and environmental concerns, journalists can drive social change and contribute to nation-building. Bangladesh’s growing population and increasing access to television and digital media have expanded audiences. This larger viewership provides journalists with a platform to influence public discourse and reach diverse demographics.
The political landscape in Bangladesh exerts a considerable influence on media operations. Journalists often face direct or indirect pressure from political entities to shape narratives favoring particular agendas. This interference can result in self-censorship, compromising journalistic integrity and objectivity. Despite constitutional guarantees, media freedom in Bangladesh is often constrained. Press freedom in Bangladesh has faced scrutiny due to restrictive laws and political interference. Laws such as the Digital Security Act (DSA) have been criticized for being used to suppress dissent and target journalists who publish unfavorable content. This limits the scope of critical reporting. A progressive legal framework ensuring freedom of speech is vital for the growth of television journalism.
Reporting on sensitive issues such as corruption, political scandals, or human rights violations exposes journalists to threats, harassment, and physical violence. Instances of attacks on journalists have been reported, creating a climate of fear and hindering investigative reporting. The television industry in Bangladesh is highly competitive but Television channels face financial challenges due to reliance on advertisements and the competition from digital platforms. Many media houses struggle to sustain operations due to declining advertising revenues and increasing operational costs. This financial instability often affects journalists’ salaries, job security, and overall motivation. Subscription-based models, innovative advertising solutions, and partnerships with tech firms could help ensure sustainability.
Television journalists must keep pace with rapidly evolving technology. However, limited access to advanced training and resources often results in a skills gap, hindering journalists’ ability to leverage new tools for effective storytelling. With the rise of fake news and biased reporting, the credibility of television journalism in Bangladesh has come under scrutiny. In the age of information overload, combating misinformation is a significant challenge. Maintaining public trust is increasingly challenging in an era of misinformation and sensationalism. Television journalists must prioritize fact-checking and credibility to maintain public trust. The media industry, while improving, still lags in ensuring gender equality. Television journalism is fast-paced, requiring journalists to meet tight deadlines. This often leads to stress, long working hours, and burnout, impacting their mental and physical well-being.
The future of television journalism in Bangladesh lies in its ability to adapt to technological advancements, changing audience behaviors, and societal demands. By embracing digital transformation, prioritizing credibility, and focusing on issues relevant to the public, television journalism can continue to play a vital role in shaping the nation’s discourse. However, overcoming challenges like censorship, financial instability, and misinformation is essential for ensuring a vibrant and independent media landscape. Television journalism in Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, facing significant challenges but also immense opportunities. The expanding media landscape, digital integration, and demand for impactful storytelling offer avenues for growth. Through innovation and commitment to journalistic integrity, television journalism in Bangladesh can thrive in the coming years.
ATIFA ANJUMAN is a Broadcast Journalist and News Presenter, Independent Television
