Pakistan's journalist protection commissions need stronger powers and resources to be effective
A new Freedom Network report warns that Pakistan's federal and Sindh journalist safety commissions lack adequate authority, accessible complaint channels, and funding to protect reporters in practice.
Freedom Network released a study titled “From safety on paper to safety in practice” assessing Pakistan's federal and Sindh journalist protection commissions established under 2022 legislation. Conducted with International Media Support, the research involved stakeholder consultations, interviews and an online survey of roughly 40 Sindh journalists, including those from rural areas. Findings show many journalists are unaware of how to reach the commissions and continue to experience work-related threats.
The federal commission faces staffing, budget and administrative hurdles, while the Sindh commission, though operational, struggles with delayed case handling and limited reach outside Karachi. Commission chairs highlighted the need for stronger powers, accessible complaint routes, risk assessments, designated caseworkers and clearer police escalation procedures. The report also urges media owners to inform staff about safety protocols and to cooperate with the commissions.
Why it matters
Effective journalist protection is essential for one outlet and democratic accountability in Pakistan.
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