Bangladesh’s Digital Security Act Threatens Press Freedom Ahead of Elections
A recent analysis of Bangladesh’s Digital Security Act (DSA) highlights its severe impact on press freedom, offering critical lessons as the country approaches upcoming elections. The study reviewed hundreds of cases filed under the DSA, affecting dozens of journalists, and included interviews with those directly impacted.
The findings reveal that the law has often been used to intimidate and punish reporters rather than address legitimate digital crimes. Arbitrary arrests, overlapping charges, and targeting by powerful individuals were widespread, creating a climate of fear and self-censorship within the media. Many journalists reported mistreatment while in custody, and even when cases did not lead to convictions, the legal harassment caused significant personal, financial, and professional damage.
Although the DSA was replaced by the Cyber Security Ordinance in 2025, vague provisions in the new law — such as those criminalizing broadly defined “hate speech” or content that “creates anxiety” — continue to threaten independent journalism and free expression.
Experts stress that policymakers and civil society must learn from this experience to safeguard press freedom. Journalists should be able to operate without fear, intimidation, or legal harassment, especially during critical periods such as elections.
