On World Press Freedom Day 2025, Pakistan’s media landscape is marred by escalating repression. Journalists face arrests, frozen bank accounts, and digital censorship, painting a grim picture of press freedom in the country.
Arrests and Legal Actions
The enactment of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025 (PECA) in January has intensified the crackdown on dissenting voices. In March, journalist Waheed Murad was arrested for allegedly posting “intimidating content” online. He was granted bail after a two-day remand, with the court questioning the evidence presented by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
Similarly, on March 20, journalist Farhan Mallick, founder of the digital media platform Raftar, was arrested by the FIA for allegedly airing “anti-state” content on his YouTube channel. His team reported that FIA officials visited their office without prior notice, harassed staff, and summoned Mallick, who was then arrested after hours of waiting.
Financial Strangulation
In April, several journalists, including Asad Toor, Sabir Shakir, Imran Riaz, Siddique Jan, and Sami Ibrahim, reported that their bank and mobile wallet accounts were frozen without notice. Family members of these journalists also faced similar restrictions. The government denied ordering these actions, but journalist unions and rights activists have condemned the move as an attempt to silence dissent.
Digital Censorship
The digital space in Pakistan has become increasingly restricted. Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has been blocked for over a year. The government has also proposed a national internet firewall, which the Pakistan Software Houses Association warns could cost the economy up to $300 million due to internet disruptions.
Violence Against Journalists
The physical safety of journalists remains a significant concern. In May 2024, journalist Nasrullah Gadani was shot dead by unknown assailants in Sindh. In June, Khyber News correspondent Khalil Jibran was murdered in Landi Kotal, District Khyber. These incidents underscore the dangers faced by journalists in Pakistan.
International Condemnation
International organizations have expressed alarm over the deteriorating press freedom in Pakistan. Reporters Without Borders ranked Pakistan 152 out of 180 countries in its 2024 Press Freedom Index. The European Union has warned that Pakistan’s favorable trade status under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) depends on progress in human rights and media freedom.
