In Bangladesh, the professional life of media workers is becoming increasingly complex. Beyond media house rules and controls, the social surveillance of family members and relatives often creates invisible pressure on journalists. As a result, many are forced to self-censor their opinions.
Recently, a female journalist working at an online news portal shared her experience with Bangladesh Media Monitor. She did not want her name to be revealed, and for professional safety, we are also keeping her identity undisclosed.
Question: Has your media house prohibited you from posting political opinions on your personal social media profile?
Answer: The media house has not directly imposed a ban on posting political content or opinions on personal social media profiles. However, there are clear instructions in the media house’s social media policy and guidelines regarding this matter. If those instructions are followed, the opportunity to post political content on personal profiles becomes quite limited.
Question: Does your media house monitor or surveil your social media?
Answer: In some cases, the media house does monitoring or surveillance, especially when any complaints arise. In such situations, the concerned person’s social media activities may be brought under monitoring. However, generally, there is no routine or daily monitoring of all employees’ social media. In my case, I have not been subjected to any regular monitoring or surveillance.
Question: To avoid such hassles, do you self-censor or refrain from posting political opinions on Facebook or other social media?
Answer: Yes, I refrain from posting certain things and I do self-censor. Especially after August 5, when any post could potentially go against religious or political groups, I consciously avoid such posts. The main reason is to avoid possible controversy or complications and to maintain both media house and personal safety.
Question: While working as a journalist, have you ever felt that your family or relatives were surveilling your Facebook or work?
Answer: Yes, I have felt this to some extent. Especially at the beginning of my career, after receiving some complaints or remarks, I became more cautious. As a result, I keep my connections with family or relatives on social media limited and often do not give them full access.
Question: Besides surveillance, have they ever advised you not to write or publish certain news, warning it might create risks?
Answer: Yes, they almost always give such advice.
Question: After such family surveillance or control, did you self-censor yourself, or did you try to hide your work and social media activities from your family?
Answer: Yes, depending on the situation, sometimes I self-censor my posts or activities, and at other times, I try to hide from my family members.
Question: How can journalists protect themselves from such family or media house surveillance while continuing their work?
Answer: In this case, it is better not to make posts that directly reveal personal political positions. When posting, one should avoid disclosing their location, address, or photos and identities of family members. In sharing such information, one must always be cautious to ensure personal safety and protect family privacy.