Pakistan’s laws designed to protect journalists from threats and attacks risk remaining ineffective without stronger enforcement and accessible complaint systems, a new report by media watchdog Freedom Network has warned.
The report, titled From Safety on Paper to Safety in Practice, examines the performance of federal and Sindh commissions established to protect journalists and address crimes against media workers.
Journalists Face Threats and Limited Support
The assessment found that 65 per cent of surveyed journalists in Sindh had experienced work-related threats or interference since 2021.
Although 70 per cent of respondents knew a provincial journalist protection law existed, 65 per cent did not know where to find the commission’s office or how to submit a complaint.
The findings highlight a gap between legal protections and the practical support available to journalists facing intimidation.
Commissions Struggle With Resources
The report identified staffing, budget and administrative constraints affecting the federal commission. In Sindh, it noted concerns about delayed responses, limited outreach beyond Karachi and reliance on police replies.
However, Sindh commission chairman Aijaz Ahmed Memon disputed suggestions that journalists lacked trust in the institution. He pointed to improvements in coordination, case activity and outreach plans.
The report also highlighted shortcomings among media employers. Around 51 per cent of surveyed journalists said their employers had not provided information about safety procedures, emergency contacts, insurance or legal assistance.
Report Calls for Stronger Protection Measures
Freedom Network recommended confidential complaint channels, urgent risk assessments and designated caseworkers to support journalists facing threats.
It also called for clearer procedures to escalate complaints to police, stronger cooperation from media employers and the publication of anonymised case outcomes and spending details.
The report urged federal and provincial governments, law enforcement agencies, media organisations and journalist groups to work together.
It stressed that legal protections must translate into timely assistance and practical safeguards for journalists at risk.
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