International honor for Freedom Network
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 12 December 2017
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The Freedom Network was awarded the Human Rights Prize by French Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet for its efforts in promoting freedom of information in Pakistan. This recognition underscores the ongoing struggles faced by journalists in the country.Summary
ISLAMABAD - French Justice Minister Ms. Nicole Belloubet at a ceremony Tuesday in Paris awarded The French Republic’s prestigious Human Rights Prize to Freedom Network for its “excellent work for Freedom of Information, Freedom of the Press and Journalism.”
The International Media Support quoted Iqbal Khattak, executive director of the Islamabad-based Freedom Network, as saying: “The award is an honor for Freedom Network and essentially constitutes recognition of the struggle by Pakistani journalists, media and civil society for the defense and promotion of freedom of information, freedom of the press and journalism in Pakistan.”
He was also quoted as saying: “The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees freedom of expression and right to information, but as the country struggles with its turbulent political transitions and empowerment of citizens, it is grappling with serious impediments such as attacks against journalists, censorship and curbs that citizens and bloggers face online from controversial laws and executive authorities.”
Freedom Network is Pakistan’s first media watchdog organization monitoring attacks on journalists and other information practitioners. It undertakes research, advocacy and capacity building on protection of freedom of expression and assisting journalists and other information practitioners. - International Media Support
KEY POINTS:
- Freedom Network awarded the French Human Rights Prize
- Recognition for work in freedom of information and press
- Cited challenges faced by Pakistani journalists
- Constitution guarantees freedom of expression
- Freedom Network monitors attacks on information practitioners
