PECA becomes weapon against journalists, report warns

Journalists in Pakistan continue to face serious threats, intimidation and legal pressure despite a decline in recorded attacks against media workers, according to a new report by media watchdog Freedom Network.

The organisation’s Impunity Report 2026, titled From Violence to Lawfare: Process as Punishment for Journalists, warns that legal proceedings are increasingly being used to pressure journalists and restrict independent reporting.

The report, prepared with technical assistance from International Media Support, was authored by journalist Adnan Rehmat and Freedom Network Executive Director Iqbal Khattak.

It argues that impunity in Pakistan has expanded beyond the failure to prosecute crimes against journalists and has developed into a wider system of intimidation through legal and administrative procedures.

The findings cover incidents recorded between October 2025 and August 2026. During this period, the watchdog documented one work-related killing, three attempted assassinations, 18 threats of murder or physical harm, 11 assaults, 13 legal actions and 32 threats of legal proceedings.

Punjab accounted for 49 reported cases, representing slightly more than half of the documented incidents. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad and Balochistan also recorded cases.

Digital and independent journalists were among the most frequently targeted groups. According to the report, victims or their families identified government authorities and officials as alleged instigators in nearly two-thirds of the cases.

PECA increasingly used against journalists

The report raised particular concerns over the use of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) against journalists, identifying it as a major instrument in the growing legal pressure on online media.

It highlighted the role of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in pursuing cases involving journalists over allegations such as defamation, spreading false information, harassment and reputational damage.

According to the findings, legal proceedings have also targeted journalists reporting on public expenditure, corruption and the conduct of government officials.

The report noted that journalists can face serious consequences even without a confirmed first information report or conviction. These include repeated summonses, examination of electronic devices, travel expenses, legal fees, detention and damage to professional reputations.

It further observed that relief in such cases often comes through bail or procedural protection rather than a final decision clearing the journalist of the allegations.

Freedom Network also expressed concern over the limited effectiveness of existing institutional mechanisms designed to protect journalists.

It noted that Pakistan has established two high-level journalist safety commissions under relevant laws, including a federal body and a separate commission in Sindh.

However, the report described the federal protection mechanism as effectively dysfunctional. It said the Sindh commission had greater visibility but limited reach and a weak record of providing protection beyond Karachi.

The watchdog called attention to the need for stronger safeguards and more effective implementation of journalist protection laws.

The report was released ahead of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, observed annually on November 2.