Freedom of the press in Pakistan
Freedom of the press in Pakistan is legally safeguarded by constitutional amendments, which uphold sovereignty, national integrity, and moral principles through specified media laws, including the Freedom of Information Ordinance 2002 and the Code of Conduct Rules 2010. These regulations establish a framework for publishing, distributing, and circulating news stories, as well as for operating independent media organizations within the country. The legal framework for media in Pakistan embodies a hybrid system that supports independent journalism while prohibiting media bias and misleading information, as outlined in the constitution. Media crimes, as defined by the criminal codes, are recognized as unlawful acts.
However, freedom of the press in Pakistan faces several restrictions, including defamation laws, inadequate protection for whistleblowers, obstacles to accessing information, and challenges stemming from public and governmental hostility towards journalists. Various forms of media, including print, television, radio, and internet, operate under specific provisions such as the PEMRA Ordinance 2002, Defamation Ordinance 2002, Broadcasting Corporation Act 1973, and the Code of Conduct for Media Broadcasters/Cable TV Operators. The Protection of Journalists Act of 2014 allows journalists and media entities to cover stories and present them to the public without compromising national security, although practical challenges remain.
To safeguard the intellectual, moral, and fundamental rights of citizens, the Pakistani government has implemented various measures to combat the spread of fake news and restrict objectionable content across multiple platforms. Pakistani law explicitly prohibits the dissemination or publication of fake news via social or mass media, with potential consequences including imprisonment for journalists or bans on newspapers. Journalists in Pakistan have raised concerns regarding military and security agencies' efforts to suppress negative publicity, alleging that these entities exert pressure to control the narrative and limit critical reporting. This environment poses significant challenges for journalists seeking to operate independently and report freely on issues of public interest.