Cross-border dialogue calls for stronger networks and inclusive media reforms
DHAKA, May 12: Women journalists from Nepal and Bangladesh have called for a stronger cross-border network to address shared professional challenges, enhance safety and promote leadership opportunities for women in the media.
Gathering at an interaction program organized by Initiatives of Media Women (IMW), Nepal in collaboration with the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka, over 50 journalists from major Bangladeshi media outlets and several Nepali media representatives highlighted issues of underrepresentation, gender bias and lack of institutional support for women in the field.
Mr Speaker, Either Prove or Apologize!
Deputy Speaker of Nepal's House of Representatives, Indira Rana Magar, who served as the keynote speaker, emphasized the need for collective efforts to remove systemic and social barriers faced by women in journalism. "Although the media sector is progressing, it still reflects deep-rooted gender biases," she said. "It's crucial that women journalists unite to push for meaningful change."
Nepal's Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, commended the initiative, stating that cross-border collaborations not only build professional solidarity but also strengthen people-to-people ties between neighboring nations. "Bringing together women journalists from our two countries is a commendable step," he said.
Professor Dr Hosne Ara Begum, founder and executive director of Thengamara Mohila Sabuj Sangha (TMSS), South Asia's largest women-led organization, welcomed the initiative as the beginning of deeper cooperation between women journalists in the region. "This first-of-its-kind interaction should continue and grow," she urged.
IMW President Laxmi Bhandari highlighted common issues faced by women in both Nepal and Bangladesh, stressing that continued dialogue and partnerships could lead to more inclusive media practices and greater capacity building.
Participants collectively agreed to work towards establishing a regional platform that amplifies women's voices, shares resources, and supports media professionals facing discrimination or violence in their work.
The program concluded with a joint commitment to foster solidarity and collaboration among South Asian women journalists in pursuit of a more equitable and empowered media landscape.
