Participants stressed that a broad-based alliance supported by strong journalists’ unions was essential to protect independent journalism and expand the space for free expression.
South Asia’s lead crisis is not inevitable. Experience elsewhere demonstrates that decisive regulation, industrial formalisation and community-level interventions can sharply reduce exposure.
For the international community, supporting South Asia’s efforts to build resilience is not only a humanitarian imperative but also a matter of global stability.
The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act still uses the term “child pornography” for child sexual abuse material – an outdated phrasing that can minimise the gravity of the crime.
While a single monthly reading above 6 per cent does not constitute a formal policy failure, the persistent upward trajectory since early 2026 leaves monetary authorities with little room to manoeuvre.
The authors stress that individual knowledge alone is insufficient. Food environments – marketing, pricing, availability and access – must support healthier choices.
While a single monthly reading above 6 per cent does not constitute a formal policy failure, the persistent upward trajectory since early 2026 leaves monetary authorities with little room to manoeuvre.