Protecting Press Freedom in Pakistan: The Call for Legal Reform
In an important development for media professionals in Pakistan, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) is urging the Supreme Court to revisit the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). They’ve raised concerns about escalating threats to press freedom and the safety of journalists—a topic that should concern all of us.
Earlier this year, amendments to PECA were pushed through the National Assembly, significantly broadening the government’s ability to regulate online content. This includes the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority, which could remove online content and penalize those sharing "prohibited material." Sounds serious, right?
With these changes, even sharing something expunged from parliamentary records could land someone in jail for up to three years, along with hefty fines. The IFJ argues that journalists are now facing increasing harassment and legal cases under these new rules, which could stifle independent journalism.
What’s even more alarming is the fact that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) can act without a formal complaint, opening the door to arbitrary actions against journalists. This poses a direct threat to freedom of expression—a cornerstone of any democratic society.
In its letter to the Chief Justice, the IFJ highlighted that at least seven journalists were killed in Pakistan over the past year, with little to no accountability for these crimes. The statistics are sobering: 34 recorded violations, including physical assaults and online intimidation.
The situation is exacerbated by systemic issues like unpaid wages, unlawful dismissals, and barriers to forming unions. Media professionals are being denied their fundamental rights, and the time to act is now.
The IFJ’s appeals are a wake-up call for all of us who value press freedom. They’ve initiated fact-finding missions and expressed their support for ongoing legal efforts aimed at curtailing these sweeping powers granted to the FIA.
If you’re concerned about the state of journalism and freedom of expression in Pakistan, it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged. Organizations like Pro21st are dedicated to highlighting these pressing issues while advocating for a safer, more just environment for journalists. Together, we can work towards protecting press freedom and ensuring that every voice is heard.
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