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Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Sunday said existing laws, rules and policies under his ministry will be updated to keep pace with the rapid advancement of technology and the expanding digital ecosystem.
“Initiatives will also be taken to enact new laws where necessary,” he said while chairing a meeting on reviewing and updating legal frameworks at the ministry’s conference room on July 5.
The minister directed officials to examine legal frameworks in other countries and prepare practical, up-to-date recommendations tailored to Bangladesh’s context.
He noted that digital technology has become deeply embedded in people’s daily lives, influencing communication, behaviour and social interaction.
“While technology has brought immense benefits, it has also created new risks and challenges. Addressing these through an effective legal framework is now essential,” he said.
Swapon said the ministry has already begun reviewing all existing laws, rules, regulations and policies under its jurisdiction. Officials have been asked to identify provisions that require modernisation, areas where new legislation is needed, and existing legal gaps.
He observed that the ministry’s scope was once largely limited to print and broadcast media, but the rapid growth of digital platforms has created new forms of media that remain outside current legal coverage.
“It is therefore crucial to modernise the legal framework in line with changing realities,” he added.
The minister said countries such as the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States have already introduced laws to regulate digital platforms and address emerging technological challenges.
Officials have been tasked with studying these international frameworks to help develop a robust and context-appropriate legal structure for Bangladesh.
He also stressed the importance of coordinated efforts involving both government and private stakeholders to bring cyberspace, digital transmission and technology-based services under an effective regulatory system.
In this regard, he called for consultations with relevant agencies, technology experts, and telecommunications and infrastructure-related institutions.
Swapon further instructed officials to identify emerging challenges promptly, define responsibilities among stakeholders and seek expert input where necessary.
Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farzana, Additional Secretary Shah Alam, members of the ministry’s legal panel and senior officials attended the meeting.
