PFUJ vows to uphold press freedom amidst rising challenges

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 2 May 2024

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists stresses the importance of press freedom on World Press Freedom Day. They condemn government intimidation tactics and call for protective measures for journalists.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—On the eve of World Press Freedom Day, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) declared its unwavering commitment to championing the cause of press freedom and expression in Pakistan, which has seen a concerning decline. The PFUJ calls on the government to prioritize safeguarding these fundamental rights, as they are essential for any nation’s positive global reputation and democratic health.

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari emphasized that a free press is the benchmark of a progressive and healthy society, and it must be preserved at all costs.

The PFUJ leadership highlighted the disturbing trend of intimidation tactics used against journalists, ranging from physical assaults to enforced disappearances and even murder. Such overt censorship has contributed to Pakistan’s decline in the global press freedom rankings.

The union also pointed out the troubling use of fabricated legal cases, abductions, and threats against media professionals, as well as the misuse of regulatory authorities and oppressive laws like PECA. These actions have jeopardized the media industry and led to a financial crisis impacting journalists and media workers directly. The harassment and trolling of female journalists and anchors were particularly noted as unacceptable in any society that values civility.

The statement concluded with a call to action for the government to foster an environment conducive to press freedom and respect dissenting voices. The PFUJ urges initiating a dialogue with all stakeholders to formulate a strategic response to these pressing issues.