In recent years, the relationship between the Pakistani state and the media has significantly deteriorated. State media relations in Pakistan examining the influence of government policies on media freedom, the role of censorship, and the impact on journalism and public discourse. The past two years have witnessed an alarming rise in censorship, violence against journalists, and a growing intolerance for criticism by the government. This troubling trend has been highlighted in a report titled “Under Siege: Legislative, Judicial and Executive Actions Stifling Freedom of Expression and Right to Information,” published by the Institute of Research, Advocacy and Development (IRADA). The report is part of IRADA’s annual state of digital journalism series and offers a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing freedom of expression and digital media in Pakistan.
Legislative Developments Affecting Freedom of Expression
The report delves into key legislative changes in Pakistan during 2023 that have had a profound impact on freedom of expression, access to information, and the digital media landscape. According to Muhammad Aftab Alam, the executive director of IRADA, this year’s report sheds light on how recent laws have affected these fundamental rights.
One of the critical concerns raised by the report is the effect of judicial decisions on freedom of expression. The report reveals a complex picture, where court rulings sometimes protect free speech but also impose significant restrictions. The judiciary’s use of restrictive interpretations of freedom of expression (FOE) laws has been particularly concerning. These interpretations have often been used to shut down criticism of the courts, undermining their credibility in defending free speech against other branches of the state.
The Erosion of Press Freedom
The report highlights a fundamental mistrust of free speech within Pakistan’s post-colonial state structure. In this system, the presumption is often against free speech, requiring citizens to justify their right to speak freely, rather than the state having to justify any restrictions on speech. This approach is contrary to the principles of free expression, which should be protected unless there is a clear and compelling reason to limit it.
The erosion of state media relations in pakistan is further demonstrated by the increasing number of journalists who have been arrested or detained in recent years. Prominent journalists like Imran Riaz Khan and Khalid Jamil have been targeted by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), raising serious concerns about press freedom, transparency, and due process in the country. The report notes that these arrests are part of a broader trend of suppressing dissent and silencing critical voices in the media.
Challenges Facing Digital Journalism in Pakistan
Digital journalism in Pakistan is facing multiple challenges, as highlighted by former Senator Farhatullah Babar in the report. He points out that there are significant gaps in legislation related to digital media, with some areas lacking any laws, while others suffer from faulty or poorly implemented legislation. These challenges are compounded by the state’s reluctance to enforce existing laws that protect freedom of expression and the right to information.
One of the most concerning aspects of the report is the growing number of content removal requests made by the Pakistani government to major tech platforms like Google, Meta, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). Between January 2021 and June 2022, Meta restricted access to 12,001 items in Pakistan in response to complaints from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) about alleged violations of local laws. This level of state intervention in online content raises serious questions about the extent of censorship and the government’s commitment to upholding digital rights.
Internet and Network Shutdowns: A Growing Concern
Another significant issue highlighted in the report is the frequent use of internet and network shutdowns by the Pakistani government. According to international digital rights organization AccessNow, there were six internet/network shutdowns across Pakistan between 2022 and 2023. These shutdowns were carried out under government directives and are often justified as necessary for maintaining public order or national security. However, such actions severely restrict the public’s access to information and communication, further stifling freedom of expression and press freedom.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Struggle for Freedom of Expression
The relationship between the state and media in Pakistan has become increasingly strained over the past two years, as evidenced by the rise in censorship, violence against journalists, and government actions aimed at curbing criticism. The IRADA report “Under Siege” provides a detailed examination of the legislative, judicial, and executive actions that have contributed to this decline in freedom of expression and the right to information.
The report highlights the need for stronger protections for press freedom and digital rights in Pakistan. It also underscores the importance of addressing the challenges faced by digital journalism, including the lack of adequate legislation and the misuse of existing laws to suppress dissent. As the state continues to tighten its grip on the media, the struggle for freedom of expression in Pakistan remains a critical issue that demands urgent attention and action.
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