Al Jazeera Journalism Review

Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League, and anti-quota protesters engage in a clash at the Dhaka College area, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 16, 2024. Reuters
Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League, and anti-quota protesters engage in a clash at the Dhaka College area, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 16, 2024. Reuters

Bangladesh: Why Were Foreign Correspondents Absent?

The world may have missed certain stories by not having a dedicated foreign correspondent in Dhaka.

As Bangladesh reaches a historic turning point, where anti-government protests have led to the dramatic ousting of the once-unshakeable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, it is the local journalists—who are reporting from the frontlines, for both national and international publications—directly from the ground.

Meanwhile, foreign correspondents stationed in other regions of South Asia—most prominently in New Delhi—offering broader regional context and insights into the geopolitical dynamics are absent from the ground.

As the world watches the situation in Bangladesh unfold, the role of local journalists becomes increasingly vital. For instance, award-winning freelance journalist, Redwan Ahmed, based in Dhaka, has offered firsthand accounts of the protests and developments, capturing the raw emotions and realities on the ground. His reports have been featured in prominent publications such as The Guardian and Voice of America. Meanwhile, foreign correspondents for the Financial Times, such as Benjamin Parkin and South Asia bureau chief John Reed, based in New Delhi, offer broader analysis. They examine the geopolitical and diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina.

BBC Bangladesh
Report by the BBC, live" from Delhi on the situation in Bangladesh

A quick look at journalist bylines and profiles reveals that many foreign correspondents for major international news outlets are based in New Delhi, where they cover South Asia as a whole. This positioning enables them to provide valuable regional context to the events unfolding in Bangladesh. For instance, Gerry Shih, the India Bureau Chief for the Washington Post, is based in New Delhi and is providing coverage on Bangladesh as well as neighbouring countries, as highlighted in his author bio for the article titled "Bangladesh Imposes Curfew After Dozens Killed in Anti-Government Protests." Similarly, a video report by the BBC, "Bangladesh PM resigns and flees country," features a journalist reporting "live" from Delhi on the situation in Bangladesh.

Why were these foreign correspondents reporting from afar rather than from within Bangladesh? In a time when proximity often shapes perception, is it possible for those away from the heart of the action to truly capture the full scope of what’s unfolding? Isn't the recent situation in Bangladesh significant enough to draw foreign journalists to report on the ground?

 

Why Foreign Correspondents leave Bangladesh?

Typically, foreign correspondents flock to hotspots during such crucial events and moments or stay as residents in key locations, serving as official representatives for their news outlets. For instance, Caroline Davies, the BBC's current Pakistan correspondent based in Islamabad, provided in-depth coverage of the country's elections in Feb 2024 and continues to report today on its evolving political landscape. Similarly, in 2022, Christina Goldbaum, the Afghanistan and Pakistan bureau chief for The New York Times, travelled by boat through the flood-stricken areas of Pakistan to report on the crisis, speaking with people stranded in villages.

 

However, in the past years, Bangladesh has also seen its fair share of international media presence during significant events. For example, during the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse in Dhaka, journalists from around the world quickly arrived to cover the disaster. Notably, New York Times reporter Jim Yardley was among the first American journalists on the scene, staying for an entire year to uncover numerous stories within Bangladesh's textile industry. Similarly, an exploration of the BBC archives reveals that in 1997, Frances Harrison served as the BBC's Dhaka-based foreign correspondent, reporting on diverse topics ranging from the annual Bauls festival to the severe flooding that affected millions.

Bangladesh WP

Given this history of international engagement, why is there a noticeable absence of foreign correspondents now, particularly during a time of dramatic political change? Several factors could contribute to this situation. Has the focus of the global media shifted elsewhere, considering Bangladesh less newsworthy on the international stage? Are economic constraints limiting resources for foreign coverage? Additionally, logistical challenges, such as difficulties in travelling within the country during ongoing protests, may pose significant barriers. Access to key locations and interviews might also be restricted, complicating on-the-ground reporting. Furthermore, political risks, including the potential for harassment or detention of foreign journalists, could deter media outlets from sending correspondents.

A notable example of these challenges is Susannah Savage, now a commodities correspondent at the Financial Times, who previously worked as the South Asia correspondent for The Economist. In 2022, she tweeted on X about her harrowing experience in Bangladesh, stating:

Working as a foreign correspondent for The Economist in #Bangladesh, I was picked up, held, interrogated, and eventually deported by intelligence services because of my reporting.

She accompanied her tweet with images of her injuries and the hashtag #JournalismIsNotACrime.

In December 2014, British journalist David Bergman, who was based in Dhaka at the time and is now in London, was found guilty by the Bangladesh courts for questioning and doubting the official death toll in the country’s 1971 independence war. It was ruled that his articles “hurt the feelings of the nation.” He was ordered to pay a fine or go to prison for a week. The case was viewed as a test of the country's commitment to free speech. As quoted in an article by The Guardian, Bergman said: "It is likely to make it increasingly difficult for journalists and others to comment on judicial proceedings and judgements in Bangladesh, even when those proceedings are completed."

Such cases raise the question of whether these threats contribute to the current absence of on-the-ground international media coverage in Bangladesh. In light of these challenges, it’s important to consider why many foreign correspondents are now reporting on Bangladesh from New Delhi.

 

Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League, and anti-quota protesters engage in a clash at the Dhaka College area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 16, 2024. Reuters
Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling party Bangladesh Awami League, and anti-quota protesters engage in a clash at the Dhaka College area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 16, 2024. Reuters

 

Why Do Foreign Correspondents Choose New Delhi?

It appears that New Delhi, the capital of India, has become a key hub for foreign correspondents covering South Asia. Several factors contribute to this trend. Its central location makes it easy to access important neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Additionally, New Delhi offers political stability and is home to many resources.

Even the coverage of the January 2024 national elections in Bangladesh was largely handled by foreign correspondents based in Delhi or local Bangladeshi journalists. This was highlighted by Sam Jahan, an award-winning multiplatform journalist in Dhaka currently working for Reuters News Agency, who tweeted on X:

Local journalists and election 'observers' gather at the Bangladesh Election Commission today to get their accreditation passes regarding #nationalpolls. Wow at the number, while many foreign journalists, including from the NY Times, Bloomberg, AFP, and Reuters, did not get clearance to come over.

Were the authorities worried about potential negative or critical coverage of the election process? Could these denials be part of a larger trend of restricting press freedom during politically sensitive times in Bangladesh?

A report from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) raised concerns about media freedom in Bangladesh during the elections. The CPJ urged Bangladeshi authorities and political parties to protect the safety and freedom of the press during this crucial time. The report also mentioned that CPJ is investigating claims that foreign journalists were denied access to cover the elections.

 

Limitations of a Delhi-Based Perspective

While New Delhi may offer strong infrastructure, a well-connected press community, and easier access to interviews with regional experts, this approach has its drawbacks. The absence of a permanent, on-the-ground presence in Bangladesh can lead to misunderstandings about local issues, resulting in incomplete or misleading reporting.

New Delhi-based journalists may provide broad coverage of major events but could often miss the smaller details of daily life in Bangladesh, including the cultural, social, linguistic, and political nuances that a correspondent based in Dhaka would naturally notice. This distance means that correspondents in New Delhi may not capture the immediacy of events in Bangladesh and may rely on secondary sources or local journalists for information.

Despite New Delhi’s closeness to Bangladesh, significant social differences do exist between the two countries.

 

Comprehensive reporting is essential for influencing international actions that could help support a peaceful resolution in the country

 

The Importance of On-the-Ground Foreign Coverage

On the other hand, foreign correspondents who report from the ground play a vital role in driving change. For example, in an interview with the Asia Society about his investigative reporting on Bangladesh's textile industry, journalist Jim Yardley was asked, "Has anything changed since your stories from Bangladesh came out? Are working conditions any better?"

He responded: "Global awareness of the situation in the Bangladesh garment industry has certainly increased, particularly due to the media coverage of the Rana Plaza disaster. Many global brands have committed to improving factory safety, with some investing in bringing factories up to code. Brands are now under much greater scrutiny and pressure to be transparent about how their clothing is produced. Additionally, workers received a pay raise after negotiations among workers, brands, unions, factory owners, and the government."

 

Victims and relatives of people injured and killed during unrest join a protest demanding justice at Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 14, 2024. REUTERSMohammad Ponir Hossain.
Victims and relatives of people injured and killed during unrest join a protest demanding justice at Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 14, 2024. Reuters: Mohammad Ponir Hossain.

On-the-ground foreign correspondents like Yardley are crucial in highlighting these issues. By providing firsthand accounts and thorough investigations, they bring attention to problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. Their reporting can inspire public interest, pushing consumers and advocacy groups to hold institutions accountable. Moreover, their presence and reporting can lead to real changes in industries that affect people's lives.

Without such coverage, the international community may not fully understand the crisis in Bangladesh. As such, comprehensive reporting is essential for influencing international actions that could help support a peaceful resolution in the country.

 

The divergence between local and foreign reporting is not just about geography—it’s also about the choice of words and the framing of events and narratives.

 

The Vital Role of Local Journalists in Bangladesh

Nevertheless, local journalists, who live and breathe the air of Bangladesh, have a much deeper understanding. They are familiar with the public's feelings and the intricate layers of local events. Their reporting captures authenticity that is hard to achieve from a distance.

On August 6, 2024, Nazmul Ahason, a Bangladeshi journalist at Bloomberg News, based in Washington, notes in a tweet on X:

As a Bangladeshi journalist, I was moved by how reporters back home took control to tell their stories their way. They brilliantly covered the biggest story since Bangladesh came into being...

In the absence of foreign correspondents in Dhaka, local journalists stepped up to fill the gap. They navigated the complex political landscape, often at great personal risk, to ensure that the stories of Bangladesh reached a global audience. These journalists are not just observers but active participants in shaping the narrative.

 

The role of these journalists cannot be overstated. Yet, despite their expertise, they often face challenges in getting their stories the global attention they deserve. They may lack the resources, reach, or platforms that their foreign counterparts have, which can result in their reporting being overshadowed.

 

For example, Ruma Paul, a local correspondent for Reuters, has been consistent in her coverage, providing insights into the country’s challenges and triumphs and highlighting the voices of those directly affected.

The divergence between local and foreign reporting is not just about geography—it’s also about the choice of words and the framing of events and narratives. For example, Tahmid Zami, a climate correspondent based in Dhaka for Context News by the Thomson Reuters Foundation, shared personal observations, quotes, and important details. In his article titled: "Reporter's Notebook: Witnessing Bangladesh's Student Protests Turn Deadly," Zami highlighted the immediate reactions and emotions of the protests, showing the complex dynamics with a sensitivity that comes from his deep connection to the situation.

Similarly, Faisal Mahmud, an award-winning journalist based in Dhaka who covers Bangladesh for several international news outlets, including Al Jazeera, provided valuable insights into the aftermath of the protests. For instance, he reported on how "Young people replace police in Bangladesh capital," for Al Jazeera, highlighting the importance of local perspectives.

The role of these journalists cannot be overstated. Yet, despite their expertise, they often face challenges in getting their stories the global attention they deserve. They may lack the resources, reach, or platforms that their foreign counterparts have, which can result in their reporting being overshadowed.

The recent political upheaval in Bangladesh has highlighted the critical importance of both local and foreign journalism. As we look to the future, it's clear that the story of Bangladesh deserves to be told with the depth and richness that come from combining local insights with international perspectives. The world may have missed certain stories by not having a dedicated foreign correspondent in Dhaka.

However, by embracing collaborative journalism—where both local and foreign journalists work together on the ground—we can ensure that every story from Bangladesh, as well as other underreported regions, receives the attention it deserves.

 

 

 

 

More Articles

A Half-Truth is a Full Lie

Misinformation is rampant in modern conflicts, worsened by the internet and social media, where false news spreads easily. While news agencies aim to provide unbiased, fact-based reporting, their focus on brevity and hard facts often lacks the necessary context, leaving the public vulnerable to manipulation and unable to fully grasp the complexities of these issues.

Ilya
Ilya U Topper Published on: 30 Sep, 2024
Monitoring of Journalistic Malpractices in Gaza Coverage

On this page, the editorial team of the Al Jazeera Journalism Review will collect news published by media institutions about the current war on Gaza that involves disinformation, bias, or professional journalistic standards and its code of ethics.

A picture of the Al Jazeera Media Institute's logo, on a white background.
Al Jazeera Journalism Review Published on: 24 Sep, 2024
How to Bring more Balance to Western Media Coverage of Israel and Palestine

How can journalists accurately cover Palestine without becoming unbalanced or biased? Here are some concrete tools and techniques for reporters to keep in mind.

A picture of the author, Megan O'Toole
Megan O'Toole Published on: 16 Sep, 2024
Anonymous Sources in the New York Times... Covering the War with One Eye

The use of anonymous sources in journalism is considered, within professional and ethical standards, a “last option” for journalists. However, analysis of New York Times data reveals a persistent pattern in the use of “anonymity” to support specific narratives, especially Israeli narratives.

Mohammad Zeidan
Mohammad Zeidan Published on: 8 Sep, 2024
Monitoring of Journalistic Malpractices in Gaza Coverage

On this page, the editorial team of the Al Jazeera Journalism Review will collect news published by media institutions about the current war on Gaza that involves disinformation, bias, or professional journalistic standards and its code of ethics.

A picture of the Al Jazeera Media Institute's logo, on a white background.
Al Jazeera Journalism Review Published on: 5 Sep, 2024
Analysis: Media Disinformation and UK Far-Right Riots

Analysis on the impact of media disinformation on public opinion, particularly during UK riots incited by far-right groups. A look at how sensationalist media can directly influence audience behavior, as per the Hypodermic Needle Theory, leading to normalized discrimination and violence. The need for responsible journalism is emphasized to prevent such harmful effects.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 8 Aug, 2024
Challenges for Female Journalists in Crisis Zones of Cameroon

Testimonies of what female journalists in Cameroon are facing and how they are challenging these difficulties.

Akem
Akem Nkwain Published on: 30 Jul, 2024
From TV Screens to YouTube: The Rise of Exiled Journalists in Pakistan

Pakistani journalists are leveraging YouTube to overcome censorship, connecting with global audiences, and redefining independent reporting in their homeland.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 28 Jul, 2024
Press Freedom in Multiple EU Countries on the "Verge of Collapse" Reports Show

The European Civil Liberties Union's Media Freedom 2024 report highlights a decline in press freedom and media pluralism in several EU countries, with calls for comprehensive reforms. The report also points out biases in Western media coverage of the Israeli offensive in Gaza, including restrictions on certain terms and unbalanced reporting. It raises concerns about diminishing media pluralism, journalist prosecution and surveillance, and declining public trust in the media.

A picture of the Al Jazeera Media Institute's logo, on a white background.
Al Jazeera Journalism Review Published on: 13 May, 2024
Amid Increasing Pressure, Journalists in India Practice More Self-Censorship

In a country where nearly 970 million people are participating in a crucial general election, the state of journalism in India is under scrutiny. Journalists face harassment, self-censorship, and attacks, especially under the current Modi-led government. Mainstream media also practices self-censorship to avoid repercussions. The future of journalism in India appears uncertain, but hope lies in the resilience of independent media outlets.

Hanan Zaffa
Hanan Zaffar, Jyoti Thakur Published on: 25 Apr, 2024
Journalism in chains in Cameroon

Investigative journalists in Cameroon sometimes use treacherous means to navigate the numerous challenges that hamper the practice of their profession: the absence of the Freedom of Information Act, the criminalisation of press offenses, and the scare of the overly-broad anti-terrorism law.

Nalova Akua
Nalova Akua Published on: 12 Apr, 2024
The Perils of Journalism and the Rise of Citizen Media in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia's media landscape is grim, with low rankings for internet and press freedom across the region. While citizen journalism has risen to fill the gaps, journalists - both professional and citizen - face significant risks due to government crackdowns and the collusion between tech companies and authorities to enable censorship and surveillance.

AJR Contributor Published on: 6 Apr, 2024
Silenced Voices: The Battle for Free Expression Amid India’s Farmer’s Protest

The Indian government's use of legal mechanisms to suppress dissenting voices and news reports raises questions about transparency and freedom of expression. The challenges faced by independent media in India indicate a broader narrative of controlling the narrative and stifling dissenting voices.

Suvrat Arora
Suvrat Arora Published on: 17 Mar, 2024
Targeting Truth: Assault on Female Journalists in Gaza

For female journalists in Palestine, celebrating international women's rights this year must take a backseat, as they continue facing the harsh realities of conflict. March 8th will carry little celebration for them, as they grapple with the severe risks of violence, mass displacement, and the vulnerability of abandonment amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Their focus remains on bearing witness to human suffering and sharing stories of resilience from the frontlines, despite the personal dangers involved in their work.

Fatima Bashir
Fatima Bashir Published on: 14 Mar, 2024
A Woman's Journey Reporting on Pakistan's Thrilling Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally

A Woman's Voice in the Desert: Navigating the Spotlight

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 8 Mar, 2024
Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Citizen Journalists in India's Fight for Media Inclusion

Grassroots journalists from marginalized communities in India, including Dalits and Muslims, are challenging mainstream media narratives and bringing attention to underreported issues through digital outlets like The Mooknayak.

Hanan Zaffa
Hanan Zaffar, Jyoti Thakur Published on: 3 Mar, 2024
Silenced Voices and Digital Resilience: The Case of Quds Network

Unrecognized journalists in conflict zones face serious risks to their safety and lack of support. The Quds Network, a Palestinian media outlet, has been targeted and censored, but they continue to report on the ground in Gaza. Recognition and support for independent journalists are crucial.

Yousef Abu Watfe يوسف أبو وطفة
Yousef Abu Watfeh Published on: 21 Feb, 2024
Artificial Intelligence's Potentials and Challenges in the African Media Landscape

How has the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence impacted newsroom operations, job security and regulation in the African media landscape? And how are journalists in Africa adapting to these changes?

Derick Matsengarwodzi
Derick Matsengarwodzi Published on: 18 Feb, 2024
Media Blackout on Imran Khan and PTI: Analysing Pakistan's Election Press Restrictions

Implications and response to media censorship and the deliberate absence of coverage for the popular former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in the media during the 2024 elections in Pakistan.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 14 Feb, 2024
Digital Battlegrounds: The New Broadcasting Bill and Independent Journalism in India

New legislation in India threatens the freedom of independent journalism. The draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 grants the government extensive power to regulate and censor content, potentially suppressing news critical of government policies.

Safina
Safina Nabi Published on: 11 Feb, 2024
Pegasus Spyware: A Grave Threat to Journalists in Southeast Asia

The widespread deployment of spyware such as Pegasus in Southeast Asia, used by governments to target opposition leaders, activists, and journalists, presents significant challenges in countering digital surveillance. This is due to its clandestine operations and the political intricacies involved. The situation underscores the urgent need for international cooperation and heightened public awareness to address these human rights infringements.

AJR Contributor Published on: 5 Feb, 2024
Media Monopoly in Brazil: How Dominant Media Houses Control the Narrative and Stifle Criticism of Israel

An in-depth analysis exploring the concentration of media ownership in Brazil by large companies, and how this shapes public and political narratives, particularly by suppressing criticism of Israel.

Cameroonian Media Martyrs: The Intersection of Journalism and Activism

Experts and journalists in Cameroon disagree on the relationship between journalism and activism: some say journalism is activism; others think they are worlds apart, while another category says a “very thin” line separate both

Nalova Akua
Nalova Akua Published on: 28 Jan, 2024
Silent Suffering: The Impact of Sexual Harassment on African Newsrooms

Sexual harassment within newsrooms and the broader journalistic ecosystem is affecting the quality and integrity of journalistic work, ultimately impacting the organisation’s integrity and revenue.

Derick Matsengarwodzi
Derick Matsengarwodzi Published on: 23 Jan, 2024