IFJ condemns murder of Shaheena Shaheen

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 6 September 2020

The International Federation of Journalists has condemned the murder of Shaheena Shaheen, a journalist from Balochistan. Her death raises serious concerns about ongoing violence against women in Pakistan.

Summary

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has condemned the tragic killing of Shaheena Shaheen, a Balochistan-based female journalist, who was shot dead in Kech on September 5.

IFJ said it was deeply disturbed by the ongoing violence against women in Pakistan. “The perpetrators of these wanton, violent acts must be severely punished, and authorities must make the safety of women a priority.”

The PTV Bolan morning show anchor died after she was shot twice. Shaheen was known as being a strong supporter of gender equality and had campaigned for women’s empowerment in Balochistan.

The Turbat police have commenced an investigation into the murder and now claim that Shaheen was killed by her husband in what appears to be a case of ‘honor killing.’

Earlier on November 25, 2019, Urooj Iqbal, a female journalist, was shot and killed by her husband. Iqbal was allegedly killed by her husband for not agreeing to quit her job.—IFJ media release

KEY POINTS:

• Shaheena Shaheen was shot dead in Kech on September 5.
• IFJ emphasizes the need for authorities to prioritize women's safety.
• Shaheen was a strong advocate for gender equality.
• Police investigation suggests a case of honor killing involving her husband.
• This incident reflects a troubling trend of violence against female journalists in Pakistan.