On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom and ensuring a secure environment for journalists. His words were reassuring — but do they reflect ground realities? In Pakistan, journalism often survives under fear, pressure, and uncertainty. Until commitments translate into concrete action, freedom of expression will remain a slogan.
Prime Minister Sharif well said s that the government stands for a free press and will not tolerate intimidation or coercion against journalists. The sentiment is commendable, yet the lived experience of Pakistani journalists tells a different story.
Here, writing the truth can still cost one’s peace — and sometimes, one’s life. Reporters tread carefully, mindful that a single word may offend the powerful or challenge entrenched interests. In a democracy, telling the truth should never feel like a crime.
Pakistan has lost dozens of journalists to violence, targeted attacks, and enforced disappearances. Many more live under constant threats or legal harassment. In such an environment, journalism becomes not just a profession but an act of courage.
When the Prime Minister admits that intimidation is an attack on free expression, he also acknowledges the state’s duty to protect those who speak truth to power. Justice must not only be promised — it must be delivered.
What Pakistan urgently needs are laws that shield journalists instead of silencing them.
In the digital age, the scope of journalism has expanded — bloggers, vloggers, and online reporters all contribute to public discourse. They too deserve protection under the law. Current cybercrime regulations should be revisited to ensure they are not weaponized to curb dissent or restrict legitimate reporting.
Freedom of expression comes with a moral obligation: accuracy, balance, and integrity. Media organizations and journalists alike must uphold professional ethics, verify facts, and avoid sensationalism. Misinformation not only weakens journalism’s credibility but also erodes public trust — the very foundation of a free press. Our issue is that we don’t have majority non educated journalists in term of non ethics of journalism
Speaking truth to power is noble, but it must be done with responsibility and grace.
Press freedom is not a privilege — it is a pillar of democracy. When that pillar weakens, the entire structure trembles. The government must move beyond statements and take tangible measures to protect journalists and ensure transparency in cases of violence against them. Because one truth remains timeless: when the pen is safe, the nation is strong