PFUJ raises alarm over pressure on Dawn Media Group

JournalismPakistan.com | Published 7 hours ago | JP Staff Report

Pakistan's journalists’ union has condemned a prolonged advertising ban on Dawn Media Group, calling it an attack on press freedom and urging the government to end financial pressure on the media.
Summary

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists has expressed deep concern over a government advertising ban imposed on Dawn Media Group, describing the move as an attempt to control media and restrict freedom of expression.

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari said the decision amounted to an attack on press freedom and warned that cutting off advertising revenue was being used to financially pressure a leading media organization.

PFUJ warns of pressure on independent media

The journalists’ union said Dawn has a long-standing reputation for professional and independent journalism and noted that the newspaper was founded by Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. PFUJ emphasized that the publication is respected internationally for its reporting standards.

PFUJ also highlighted the importance of traditional media at a time when misinformation on social media platforms is widespread, arguing that independent news organizations play a critical role in providing verified information to the public.

Call for immediate withdrawal of the ad ban

According to PFUJ, the suspension of government advertisements to Dawn Media Group outlets has continued for 13 months. The union said it views the prolonged stoppage as an attempt to influence editorial policy, a practice it described as unacceptable in a democratic society.

The union called on the government to immediately lift the advertising ban and reaffirm its commitment to freedom of expression and responsible journalism, while expressing solidarity with Dawn Media Group and its staff.

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