Erosion of press freedom

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Press freedom across the globe is under immense strain. In conflict zones, authoritarian regimes, and even established democracies, the space for independent journalism is shrinking at an alarming pace. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has warned that press freedom has reached its lowest level in over two decades, as journalists face increasing threats — from surveillance and disinformation to imprisonment and outright violence.

Nowhere is this more evident than in Palestine. Since October 7, 2023, more than 200 Palestinian journalists have been killed, including 15 in just the first three months of this year. What makes this tragedy even more egregious is the fact that countries that frequently proclaim themselves as champions of media freedom have remained conspicuously quiet.

Beyond war zones, journalists in countries like the US, India and Russia are increasingly facing censorship and legal intimidation. Media outlets are being undermined by political rhetoric and economic pressures, while the rise of AI and disinformation campaigns threatens the very fabric of fact-based reporting.

In Pakistan, the media is facing what many are calling an existential threat. Journalism as we know it has seen a rapid deterioration. Amendments to PECA, introduced in January, have broadened the state's authority to arrest, fine and imprison journalists for both online and offline content. This legal overreach has intensified a climate of fear and self-censorship, while job insecurity and editorial interference continue to erode professional independence.

The situation is one of the most serious in Pakistan's media history. There is less tolerance now for critical reporting than ever before.

If democracy is to survive, let alone flourish, press freedom must be protected. A free press is and will always be a powerful pillar of any true democratic society. The right to report freely and question boldly is fundamental to transparency and justice. Without it, democracy risks becoming a hollow promise rather than a lived reality.