UN Observance Day Stresses Need for Journalist Safety in Pakistan

By: Kashif Nawab

Pakistan joins the global observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists today, a United Nations-designated day established in 2013 to spotlight the need to protect journalists from violence and intimidation. For Pakistan, this day underscores a pressing reality: journalists face serious challenges that obstruct their ability to report freely and safely. Despite a vibrant media landscape with many television networks, radio stations, newspapers, and online platforms, Pakistani journalists remain highly vulnerable to harassment, threats, abductions, and targeted killings. International watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists rank Pakistan among the most dangerous countries for media professionals.

While Pakistan’s constitution guarantees freedom of expression under Article 19, various restrictions limit this right, particularly on issues considered sensitive to national security, public order, or religious sentiments. These limitations are often used by influential actors to curb critical reporting under the guise of preserving stability. Journalists covering topics such as corruption, politics, and extremism are especially at risk of facing threats. Physical violence and assassinations are real dangers; numerous journalists have been killed over recent years, with cases like those of Saleem Shahzad and Arshad Sharif serving as stark reminders of the hazards. Unfortunately, most incidents go unresolved, with the perpetrators seldom brought to justice.

Legal challenges also present a significant obstacle. Pakistan’s legal framework is sometimes used to silence journalists through defamation cases, charges of “anti-state propaganda,” and other measures that can be financially and emotionally draining. This tactic often deters journalists from pursuing further investigations. The issue of enforced disappearances compounds these risks, especially for journalists critical of state policies or reporting on sensitive areas like Balochistan. Enforced disappearances involve lengthy detentions without explanation, leaving little recourse for the journalists involved.

“..with the expansion of digital media, journalists are increasingly vulnerable to online harassment, hacking, and surveillance. Those investigating sensitive topics often face threats both online and offline”

The persistence of impunity in these cases is rooted in several factors. When powerful figures are implicated, investigations often stall or are dismissed altogether, a situation made worse by systemic corruption. Additionally, the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, passed in 2021, has yet to achieve its full potential due to resource limitations within law enforcement agencies and delays in judicial processes. Public awareness is another challenge; limited understanding of press freedom’s importance has made it difficult to apply collective pressure on the government. Civil society organizations have struggled to gain widespread support for press freedom, which could otherwise strengthen protections for journalists.

As Pakistan marks this day, the international community plays an essential role in supporting press freedom efforts. International watchdogs and UN agencies closely monitor cases involving Pakistani journalists, often applying diplomatic pressure for accountability. International aid programs provide valuable resources and training to help journalists work safely, while global attention on unresolved cases can offer some measure of protection.

To address these issues, Pakistan can take several steps to protect journalists and reduce impunity. Implementing existing protections under the law, such as the Protection of Journalists Act, is critical, as is creating independent commissions to investigate attacks, providing specialized training for law enforcement, and reducing judicial delays. Civil society can lead efforts to educate the public on press freedom’s importance. Increasing awareness through media campaigns and partnerships could help generate support and create added pressure for journalists’ safety. Additionally, with the rise of cyber threats, establishing robust digital protection laws and secure communication channels is essential. Pakistan can also work with international organizations to adopt best practices, which would help enhance accountability and journalist protection.

Today’s observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists is a reminder that Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. By addressing the culture of impunity and strengthening protections, the country could ensure a safer environment for journalists and reinforce its commitment to democratic values and press freedom.