Though Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media (BJIM), a platform for journalists working from home and abroad for esteemed global media outlets, started its journey a year ago, its formal launch was held in Dhaka on Saturday.
With three core objectives, BJIM aims to strengthen media freedom in Bangladesh and South Asia, foster professional development for local journalists, and ensure the welfare and insurance coverage of journalists in the region during difficult times.
To celebrate the one-year anniversary of its inception and official debut, BJIM is hosting a week-long photo exhibition titled 'Third Eye: Witnessing Our Time'. The exhibition is being held at the Zoom Gallerie of Alliance Francaise de Dhaka (AFD) and showcases compelling visual narratives captured by journalists. The accompanying souvenir magazine 'Third Eye' features thought-provoking writings and pictures contributed by various individuals, including politicians, activists, and journalists, reflecting on the importance of journalism in society.
The inauguration ceremony on July 22, 2023, held at the garden of AFD, was graced by Nurun Nahar Khatun, wife of the late journalist Abdul Hakim Shimul, who tragically lost his life during a political clash in 2017, and her two children. Expressing her grief and frustration at the lack of justice in her husband's case, Nurun Nahar encouraged journalists to persevere in their pursuit of truth and reporting.
“Don’t stop your pens from telling the truth,” she said while addressing the journalists at the programme. Her son, Sadik, and daughter, Tamanna, cut the ribbon to mark the beginning of the photo exhibition.
“They are our chief guests for our first anniversary,” Sam Jahan, the founding convenor of BJIM, said.
BJIM has organised four-panel discussions on contemporary issues, featuring prominent figures such as human rights activist Nur Khan Liton, senior journalist Munni Saha, Detective Branch of Police Chief Harun-or-Rashid, and others. These discussions will take place on July 25, 27, 28, and 29 at AFD.
BJIM has already made strides in supporting aspiring journalists through a fellowship program in collaboration with the Edward M. Kennedy (EMK) Center's Small Grants Fund.
Leading the charge in this endeavour is Sam Jahan, a Reuters correspondent and the founding convener of BJIM, alongside Al Jazeera journalist Faisal Mahmud, who is serving as its member secretary. Additionally, an ad-hoc committee comprising distinguished journalists such as Muktadir Rashid, Monirul Alam, Redwan Ahmed, and Mohammad Ali Mazed, has been established to spearhead the organization's initiatives.
BJIM boasts an impressive roster of members, including renowned journalists from reputable media organizations worldwide, such as Al Jazeera journalist Tanveer Chowdhury and AFP Bureau Chief Shafiqul Alam.
