On World Press Freedom Day, media organizations expressed concerns about the state of media freedom in Pakistan, particularly focusing on restrictions on mainstream media and social media during election periods.
The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) reiterated its commitment to the constitutional and legal struggle for freedom of expression in the country, pledging to confront challenges head-on.
According to AEMEND, journalists and media outlets in Pakistan face significant obstacles, including restrictions imposed by state and non-state actors such as shutting down broadcasts, pressuring journalists to resign, and launching character assassination campaigns, particularly targeting women journalists.
These tactics aim to suppress journalists and stifle freedom of expression.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) highlighted in its South Asia Press Freedom Report that while democracy was at play in the region during the past year, Pakistan witnessed the murder of four journalists.
Additionally, women journalists in Pakistan faced harassment both online and offline.
The Freedom Network released its annual ‘Pakistan Freedom of Expression and Media Report 2024,’ titled “Erosion of Free Speech: The Silencing of Citizens, Political Parties, and Media.”
The report sheds light on various socio-political, legal, and media industry-related factors impacting the exercise of Article 19 (freedom of expression) by the public and media in Pakistan.
