Bangladesh sees 381 journalist abuse cases in 2025

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 1 January 2026 |  JP Asia Desk

In 2025, a report by Ain o Salish Kendra documented 381 incidents of abuse against journalists in Bangladesh. The findings emphasize the dangerous conditions media workers face.

Summary

DHAKA— A year-end report by human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra documents 381 incidents of abuse and harassment targeting journalists in Bangladesh during 2025, highlighting persistent risks to media workers and freedom of expression.

According to the findings, journalists faced a range of threats while carrying out their work, including physical attacks, intimidation, and institutional pressure, underscoring the precarious environment for reporting in the country.

Patterns of abuse and reported fatalities

The report states that 118 journalists were attacked while reporting, pointing to dangers encountered in the field. It also records 20 death threats against media workers, reflecting a climate of fear that extends beyond physical assaults.

Ain o Salish Kendra further notes that 23 of the documented incidents involved law enforcement agencies, raising concerns about the role of state institutions in constraining journalistic activity.

Pressure from institutions and broader implications

In addition to harassment and attacks, the report indicates that three journalists were reportedly killed during the year. ASK attributes these figures to its systematic documentation of incidents reported by media and rights monitors.

The organization says the data illustrate growing physical and institutional pressures that undermine both journalists’ personal safety and the broader right to freedom of expression, a cornerstone of democratic accountability.

ATTRIBUTION: Ain o Salish Kendra year-end report for 2025