THIMPHU, BHUTAN – The Journalists’ Association of Bhutan (JAB) hosted its Annual Journalism Conference from November 26 to 27, 2024, in Paro under the theme “Reconnecting the Journalism Fraternity.”
The two-day event brought together nearly 70 media professionals, stakeholders, and government officials, including representatives from the Department of Media, Creative Industry & Intellectual Property (DoMCIIP) under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE) and the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA). The conference served as a platform for addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities in journalism, fostering collaboration, and strengthening unity within the industry.
Discussions centered on critical issues such as access to information, the ethical implications of AI integration in newsrooms, the role of media in promoting Bhutan’s national language, Dzongkha, and concerns over practices like naming and shaming. The role of journalism in supporting the vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) was another key topic of exploration. This year’s event was made possible through the generous financial support of DoMCIIP, which played a vital role in its success.
The highlight of the conference was an inspiring address by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, who reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Bhutan’s media sector. He emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, urging journalists to write with care and integrity, given the lasting impact of their words.
The Prime Minister also shared a poignant message, reminding attendees that fulfilling their duties responsibly would enable His Majesty the King to focus on achieving the royal vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City. “The best way to serve His Majesty the King is by shouldering our responsibilities well,” he said, highlighting the trust His Majesty places in all Bhutanese to contribute to the nation’s progress.
The Annual Journalism Conference was a significant milestone in shaping the future of journalism in Bhutan, reaffirming the shared commitment of media professionals and stakeholders to support the nation’s development.