President Zardari and PM Sharif Stress Importance of Independent Media Amid Challenges

On May 3, on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have highlighted the crucial role of a free and responsible media in Pakistan. They emphasized the importance of journalists adhering to ethical standards and reporting accurately, especially in the face of challenges such as fake news.
President Zardari emphasized the importance of an independent and responsible media, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to upholding press freedoms as guaranteed by the Constitution. He stressed the need for journalists to adhere to ethical standards and report accurately while also countering fake news. Zardari highlighted the role of the media in raising awareness about global issues, particularly climate change, and underscored the theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, which focuses on journalism’s role in addressing environmental crises.
Furthermore, Zardari acknowledged the challenges journalists face worldwide and advocated for creating a safe and supportive environment for them to carry out their work without fear of intimidation or harassment. He called for initiatives to ensure the safety and security of journalists, enabling them to freely report on important issues. Zardari expressed hope that the media would continue to play a constructive role in promoting democratic values and raising awareness about issues of global significance, particularly regarding climate change, with the aim of inspiring international action to safeguard the planet.
PM Sharif pledged his government’s support for the media. He underlined journalists’ dedication and vowed to improve working conditions within the sector. He emphasized the importance of press freedom, recognizing the sacrifices of journalists and media workers, particularly those who lost their lives in Gaza. He underscored the role of the media in uncovering truth and fighting oppression, highlighting its significance in democracy.
Sharif urged collaboration between media and stakeholders to ensure a conducive environment for media operations.
The Pakistan Press Foundation’s report on press freedom stressed the urgent need for the new government to prioritize media freedom and ensure it is not compromised by stringent regulatory laws, punitive actions against journalists, or extended social media shutdowns. The report also highlighted the lack of implementation on Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act 2021 despite Prime Minister Sharif’s commitment in December 2022. The report underscores the necessity for the government to swiftly draft the rules of the law and establish the required commission to protect media professionals effectively.