Journalists in Pakistan continue to face serious threats despite a decline in reported violations, according to Freedom Network’s latest Impunity Report 2026.
The report, released on October 29, warns that legal harassment has emerged as a growing threat to press freedom.
Titled From Violence to Lawfare: Process as Punishment for Journalists, the study highlights increasing pressure through legal proceedings and cybercrime investigations.
Pakistan Records Threats and Attacks Against Journalists
The report documented approximately 10 violations against media workers each month between October 2025 and August 2026.
These included one journalist killed, three attempted assassinations, 18 threats of murder or physical harm, and 11 assaults.
Researchers also recorded 13 legal actions and 32 threats of legal proceedings.
Punjab reported 49 cases, representing more than half of the documented violations.
Cybercrime Laws Raise Press Freedom Concerns
Freedom Network identified the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) as a major concern.
According to the report, journalists increasingly face investigations involving allegations of defamation, misinformation, and online harassment.
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) was specifically highlighted for its role in these proceedings.
Researchers warned that repeated summonses, legal expenses, device examinations, and court appearances can pressure journalists even without convictions.
Journalist Protection Mechanisms Face Criticism
The report criticized weaknesses in existing journalist protection systems.
It described the federal protection mechanism as largely ineffective.
Meanwhile, Sindh’s journalist safety commission reportedly has limited influence beyond Karachi.
Freedom Network Executive Director Iqbal Khattak urged greater attention to these institutional shortcomings.
The findings were released ahead of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists on November 2.
