London Visit: New Horizons for Nonviolent Journalism and Global Solidarity

My recent visit to London, following a special invitation from the British-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BBCCI), was more than just a professional trip; it was a unique blend of experiences and global reflections. It offered a close look at the lives of the Bangladeshi community in London and the evolving socio-economic landscape of the UK. The global ripples of geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding Iran, Israel, and the United States, were clearly visible in the daily life of London.

The central topic among the Bangladeshi diaspora and the business community is the current political and economic trajectory of Bangladesh. Following the political shifts in 2024 and the progress made over the last two years, British-Bangladeshi entrepreneurs are eager to participate in a new democratic journey. However, during the annual meeting of the British-Bangladesh Chamber, deep concerns were voiced regarding the ongoing global conflicts and their long-term impact. The discussions repeatedly emphasized that peace and stability are the primary conditions for development.

A key inspiration for this trip was the promotion of ‘Nonviolent Journalism.’ In an unstable world, the International Press Agency- Pressenza is working tirelessly to spread the message of peace. To this end, in 2025, Pressenza International and Pressenza Dhaka Bureau jointly organized a four-hour international virtual workshop titled ‘Reporting on Non Violence Approach’ at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU).

The spontaneous participation of mainstream journalists and positive responses from senior media professionals have accelerated our journey. Following this process, I took on the role of Executive Editor (Honorary) of the Pressenza Dhaka Bureau- a position that brings great personal satisfaction despite a busy professional schedule.

When the Pressenza Dhaka Bureau delegation reached London on April 19, one of our primary goals was to meet Antonio Carvallo, the London Bureau Chief of Pressenza and Coordinator for the World Humanist Forum (Asia & Africa) and Nonviolent Journalism.

I first met Antonio in October 2024 at an international seminar on ‘Nonviolence’ held at Shanto-Mariam University in Uttara, Dhaka. The event was jointly organized by the Humanist Movement, Uttara Center, and Shanto-Mariam University. There, I also had the privilege of meeting Rafael de la Rubia, the global coordinator of the ‘3rd World March for Peace and Nonviolence’ (Costa Rica, 2025), and Professor Decler Hague. The torch of peace they lit in Costa Rica on October 2, 2024, continues to carry the message of nonviolence across the globe.

The meeting with Antonio in London was highly productive. Antonio later attended the British-Bangladesh Chamber meeting and delivered a valuable speech. Afterward, during a meeting at a cafeteria in East London, our discussions focused on the global operational strategies of Pressenza.

Our discussion highlighted plans to strengthen Pressenza’s activities in South Asia- specifically in Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and China- through mutual cooperation. Antonio expressed his satisfaction with the current activities of the Dhaka Bureau. He offered his best wishes and assured full cooperation for the upcoming online news portal ‘Pressenza Bangla.’ Senior journalist and Dhaka Bureau contributor Hasan Mollah was also present at this meeting.

This visit reminded me once again that when journalism transcends borders to stand for human dignity and nonviolence, it becomes more than just information- it becomes a tool for change.

**********

Mynul Hasan Sohel: General Secretary, Dhaka Reporters Unity; Special Correspondent, Daily Inqilab; and Executive Editor (Honorary), Pressenza Dhaka Bureau.