Bangladesh’s journey of development has been remarkable, transitioning from a war-torn nation in

1971 to achieving significant socio-economic progress over the past five decades. The country has

made strides in poverty alleviation, reducing poverty rates from over 44% in 1991 to less than 20% in

2023. The nation is on track to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category by 2026,

reflecting its robust economic growth and improved human development indicators. Throughout

this transformative journey, media has been an indispensable force in shaping public discourse,

promoting social change, and holding power to account.

Beginning with the publication of Rangapur Barttabaha in 1847, the first Bengali-language

newspaper, media in Bangladesh has evolved into a dynamic and diverse landscape. From

traditional print and radio to a burgeoning digital ecosystem, media has consistently been a voice

for the people, playing a key role in documenting history, amplifying grassroots movements, and

influencing policymaking.

The media landscape in Bangladesh is diverse and dynamic, with a wide array of television

channels, newspapers, national and community radio stations, and digital platforms. As a vital

source of information and a platform for public discourse, the media plays a crucial role in shaping

public opinion and fostering social change and equality. Oxfam has been actively working in

Bangladesh for over 50 years, starting from 1970, addressing critical development issues such as

poverty alleviation, gender equality, and climate resilience. Engaging with media professionals is

paramount for Oxfam in Bangladesh to amplify its advocacy efforts, influence the agenda, and raise

awareness about key development issues. The media is a powerful tool for reaching diverse

audiences, influencing public opinion, and driving policy changes.

Recognizing the critical role of media, Oxfam would like to introduce the ‘Development Media Forum’ to enhance knowledge sharing, build capacity, and bridge local and global networks and

perspectives for better reporting on key development themes, including climate change, gender,

economy, and disaster.