Press freedom in Pakistan is coming under increasing strain, with journalists reportedly pointing to a growing mix of censorship, financial pressure and direct curbs that are shrinking space for independent media.
Speakers at a panel discussion held during the Ahfaz-ur-Rehman Awards for Courage of Expression and Freedom of the Press in Karachi warned that tolerance for dissent has eroded sharply — in some views, even beyond levels seen during earlier periods of military rule, according to Dawn.
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The awards, named after veteran journalist Ahfaz-ur-Rehman, recognise individuals who have stood up for freedom of expression.
This year's honour went to senior journalist Ali Ahmed Khan for his long-standing contribution to defending media independence.
During the discussion, journalist Mazhar Abbas said the boundaries of permissible reporting have narrowed significantly, noting that even routine editorial decisions now require caution.
He described the current media climate as “unprecedented,” pointing to restrictions on press events and attacks on press clubs.
Other speakers linked the tightening environment to wider structural issues, including weakened student activism, fragile political institutions and increasing social fragmentation, all of which have reduced resistance to curbs on free expression.
Journalist Wusatullah Khan flagged instances where editorial control has extended even to international coverage, underscoring the depth of oversight within newsrooms.
Amber Shamsi, stressed the need for principled resistance, particularly among younger journalists grappling with unclear editorial red lines. She added that digital platforms still offer some breathing space, with younger audiences becoming more adept at spotting misinformation, according to the report.
Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili also reportedly criticised what he described as a growing pattern of direct restrictions, including limits on protests and press activity. Despite the pressures, he reaffirmed that journalists remain committed to pushing back against constraints on media freedom.
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