Media Bodies Raise Alarm Over Press Freedom, Safety of Journalists Worldwide

ISLAMABAD: The Joint Action Committee (JAC), representing Pakistan’s major media organisations including Pakistan Broadcasters Association, All Pakistan Newspapers Society, Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors, Association of Media Electronic News Directors, and Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists, has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating state of press freedom and the safety of journalists globally.

In a joint statement issued on World Press Freedom Day, the media bodies said the past year had been particularly challenging for journalism, with increasing restrictions observed not only in developing nations but also in developed countries.

The committee noted that the situation in Pakistan also remained unsatisfactory, citing incidents where journalists were murdered, harassed, falsely charged, and subjected to violence.

Highlighting global concerns, the statement pointed out that journalists covering conflicts — especially in Gaza — lost their lives while performing their duties. It added that media freedom continues to face severe curbs in Afghanistan, while reporters in conflict zones such as Ukraine, Syria, Yemen, and Sudan encounter constant threats and violence.

The JAC further stated that journalists in countries including Russia, India, and Iran have also faced censorship, arrests, and institutional pressure.

The statement added that even in Western democracies such as the United States and European nations, media freedom is under strain. It specifically highlighted concerns in Hungary and Poland regarding institutional autonomy, while noting that journalists in France have encountered obstacles while covering protests.

It also criticised what it described as an increasingly hostile environment for journalists in the United States, particularly at senior governmental levels, contributing to uncertainty around independent reporting.

The committee expressed regret that journalists in conflict-hit regions are often deliberately targeted to prevent the flow of information, calling it a serious threat to global transparency.

In addition to security risks, the statement highlighted financial challenges facing the media industry worldwide, including job insecurity, salary cuts, and shrinking resources, which have further impacted journalists.

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Despite these challenges, the JAC paid tribute to journalists and media organisations globally for their sacrifices and commitment to truth.

“We reaffirm our commitment that our struggle to protect freedom of expression, democratic values, and the public’s right to information will continue,” the statement said.

The media bodies reiterated their resolve to uphold their constitutional and democratic responsibilities, emphasising the importance of promoting truth, transparency, and accountability in society.