Pakistan has descended two places in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on Friday. The country now stands at 152 out of 180 nations, a decline from its position at 150 in the previous year’s index.

In its assessment of Pakistan, RSF noted the nation’s historical struggle between civil society’s pursuit of greater press freedom and the enduring influence of the political-military elite over media affairs since its inception in 1947.

Despite a diversified media landscape since the end of state broadcasting monopolisation in 2002, RSF observed a nuanced situation. While the English-language press boasts a tradition of independence and online media is thriving, privately owned media relies heavily on legal notices and public sector advertisements for funding. This dependency often results in editorial policy influence, with threats of advertising withdrawal wielded by information ministries.

The report underscored the prevalence of self-censorship among journalists, driven partly by financial constraints and the risk of salary cuts during periods of employer financial strain. RSF also highlighted the complex political dynamics, noting that political parties may champion press freedom in principle but often fail to defend it when in power due to the military’s significant sway over national affairs.

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Moreover, RSF pointed out the government’s direct control over media regulators, which tend to prioritise governmental interests over the public’s right to information. This control extends to limiting coverage of military and intelligence agency involvement in politics, creating a chilling effect on journalistic inquiry.

Pakistan was labeled as one of the world’s most perilous countries for journalists, with frequent murders that often go unpunished, linked to corruption or illicit activities.

In contrast, India climbed two places to 159, though RSF described its media environment as under an “unofficial state of emergency” since Narendra Modi’s ascent to power in 2014.

The report also highlighted global trends, warning of widespread targeting of the media by politicians across various countries, with tactics ranging from discrediting journalists to orchestrating takeovers of media outlets.

Now in its 22nd year, the RSF report provides a comprehensive overview of press freedom worldwide, based on data collection and assessments by rights defenders, professionals, and researchers.

President, PM on press freedom

A statement issued by the office of President Asif Ali Zardari underscored the critical necessity of establishing an “enabling environment free of intimidation or harassment” for journalists to exercise their right to freely express opinions. “It is, therefore, imperative to initiate measures for the safety and security of journalists enabling them to freely report on important issues, without fear,” read a statement on X from the president’s official account.

“The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees freedom of the press; however, it is also the responsibility of the media to abide by journalistic ethics and report responsibly and accurately, keeping in view the national interest,” the statement continued.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed similar sentiments, emphasising that freedom of the press and expression forms the cornerstone of democracy.

“The media and all parties must work together for correct information,” he stated in a communication on X, underlining the pivotal role of the state in enhancing the media industry. Additionally, he paid tribute to journalists in Gaza, hailing them as “heroes of humanity”.