Pakistan’s Press Freedom Under Siege: CPNE Highlights Threats and Misuse of PECA

The Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) has highlighted the increasing threats to press freedom in Pakistan, with a particular focus on the misuse of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). According to the CPNE, the law is being used to silence journalists and stifle dissenting voices. The organization has expressed concern over the growing trend of intimidation and harassment of journalists, which is having a chilling effect on the media industry. The CPNE has also criticized the government’s attempts to control the media narrative, citing the use of PECA to block online content and restrict freedom of expression. The organization has called on the government to review the law and ensure that it is not used to suppress press freedom. The CPNE has also urged the government to take steps to protect journalists and ensure their safety. The misuse of PECA has been a major concern for journalists and human rights organizations in Pakistan, with many citing the law as a tool for censorship and intimidation. The law has been used to charge journalists with crimes such as defamation and blasphemy, which can carry severe penalties. The CPNE has also expressed concern over the growing trend of physical attacks on journalists, with many reporters facing violence and intimidation while carrying out their work. The organization has called on the government to take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure that journalists are able to carry out their work without fear of reprisal. The CPNE has also urged the government to establish an independent commission to investigate attacks on journalists and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The organization has also called on the government to review its media policies and ensure that they are in line with international standards on freedom of expression. The CPNE has also expressed concern over the growing trend of disinformation and propaganda in the media, citing the need for greater transparency and accountability in the industry. The organization has called on the government to take steps to promote media literacy and critical thinking, in order to combat the spread of false information. The CPNE has also urged the government to support independent media outlets and ensure that they are able to operate without fear of censorship or intimidation. The organization has also called on the government to establish a fund to support journalists who are facing financial difficulties, in order to ensure that they are able to continue their work. The CPNE has also expressed concern over the growing trend of online harassment and abuse of journalists, citing the need for greater protection and support for those who are facing these threats. The organization has called on the government to take steps to address these concerns and ensure that journalists are able to work in a safe and secure environment. The CPNE has also urged the government to review its laws and policies on online content, in order to ensure that they are in line with international standards on freedom of expression. The organization has also called on the government to establish a hotline for journalists to report threats and intimidation, in order to ensure that they are able to receive support and protection. The CPNE has also expressed concern over the growing trend of self-censorship in the media, citing the need for greater courage and independence in the industry. The organization has called on journalists to stand up for their rights and resist attempts to silence them. The CPNE has also urged the government to take steps to promote a culture of tolerance and respect for freedom of expression, in order to ensure that journalists are able to carry out their work without fear of reprisal.

Source