Cybersecurity law aims to combat online harassment, disinformation: Minister

DHAKA, Nov 1, 2026: Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam on Sunday said the government is working to ensure the protection of citizens’ personal data and cyber security alongside the expansion of digital services and infrastructure.

“To this end, importance is being given to the opinions of the ministries concerned, law enforcement agencies, experts, the media, technology institutions and other stakeholders,” he said.

The minister said the purpose of formulating the cybersecurity law is not to control freedom of expression or the media, but to ensure effective measures to deal with online harassment, disinformation, harmful content and the misuse of technology.

He also said full respect will be shown for press freedom, citizens’ rights and freedom of expression in drafting the proposed law and policies.

Faqir Mahbub Anam, also Science and Technology Minister, made the remarks when Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks paid a courtesy call on him at the Posts and Telecommunications Division, said a ministry press release.

During the meeting, they held detailed discussions on bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Sweden, digital transformation, cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI), digital public infrastructure and the prospects of investment in the technology sector.

The “One ID-One Wallet” initiative, a secure digital identity system, the security of online financial transactions and the expansion of citizen-friendly digital services received special importance in the discussions. 

In this regard, emphasis was placed on increasing cooperation through secure banking and identity technology, protection of personal data and exchange of mutual experience.

On artificial intelligence, both sides exchanged views on its potential, challenges and responsible use. 

The minister said while harnessing the potential of AI, issues such as employment, human resource development, reliability of information and the ethical use of technology must be taken into consideration. 

In particular, he said, priority needs to be given to creating future employment opportunities for the country’s large number of young people and new graduates and to developing technology-based skills. 

The Swedish ambassador, in this regard, stressed the coordinated participation of the government, the private sector, educational institutions and civil society. 

He also said there are wide opportunities for exchange of knowledge, skills and experience between Bangladesh and Sweden.

The Swedish ambassador expressed interest in cooperation by the relevant institutions of Sweden in developing Bangladesh’s digital public infrastructure and strengthening cyber security. 

He said a predictable regulatory environment, a level playing field and diversified technology partnerships can play an important role in expanding cooperation and investment in critical digital infrastructure, telecommunications, cyber security and the high-tech sector.

During the meeting, they also discussed safe internet use by children and adolescents, the role of parents in the use of social media and the importance of digital education. 

Both sides stressed the coordinated role of families, educational institutions, the state and technology platforms in building online safety and responsible digital citizenship.

At the end of the meeting, both sides expressed optimism about further strengthening the existing contacts and cooperation between Bangladesh and Sweden in digital technology, cyber security, artificial intelligence and innovative technology.

First Secretary of the Swedish Embassy Olle Lundin was present at the meeting.