Though press freedom in the country continues to pose challenges and Bhutan’s ranking remains low, it is undeniable that each headline bears the weight of responsibility, and every byline narrates a tale of resilience amidst adversity. From bustling newsrooms to remote corners of the country, journalists work tirelessly to unveil the narratives that shape the perception of the world. Today, on World Press Freedom Day, BBS brings you a story on the typical day in the life of a female journalist in the country.
Every day unfolds a new story for a journalist like Kinley Dem, a reporter with BBS. Today, she’s driving towards Phuentsholing town in pursuit of a story, skillfully handling both the roles of cameraperson and journalist.
“It can obviously be physically and mentally demanding. For me, I also have to do the visual editing work for all the stories that I file. So juggling the roles of a reporter, cameraperson, and editor has never been easy, especially when you are in the southern region. Then you have to drive and travel all alone to cover and gather new stories. But I have wholeheartedly embraced all these challenges, and today I have been able to evolve into an independent women camjo capable of delivering public service. At the end of the day, I believe this is what matters the most.”
In addition to juggling these roles, Kinley is also a mother to a young son. However, when discussing her challenges, what truly stands out is the difficulty she faced in obtaining information in the past.
“I feel that access to information is one of the major challenges faced by a reporter or journalist here in the country because many offices have become reluctant to talk to the media, thereby directly or indirectly obstructing free media practice. But for me, after I came to Phuentshogling, all the sector heads in Phuentshogling as well as Chhukha, including Dasho Dzongda himself, have been really supportive and positive toward the media. So, this has made my task a lot easier.”
Dechen Dolkar, another journalist from Kuensel, shares how she loves her job despite all the challenges.
In a recent interview, she talked about her passion for journalism and her determination to overcome obstacles in pursuit of truth and transparency.
“Sometimes, we have to work early in the morning till late night. Sometimes we have to stay till midnight. Sometimes, we have to come during the weekends and on government holidays unlike other jobs. We face lots of challenges. Sometimes, our news givers do not respond. Constantly calling them, some they are not willing to share information. Despite all these challenges, I would not trade my work for anything because I learn so many experiences and gain new knowledge every day.”
Amidst the current challenges of censorship, political pressure, and personal risk, every journalist stands as a guardian of democracy, wielding the power of words to make the society a better place.
Where truth is often met by misinformation, and the pursuit of a story can lead to risky encounters, it is journalists like Kinley and Dechen whose lives are an example of courage, dedication, and unyielding commitment to the pursuit of truth.
Samten Dolkar
Edited by Sherub Dorji
