POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Government Establishes Commission to Safeguard Journalists and Media Professionals

Pakistan establishes a Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals to ensure safety and rights of journalists under the 2021 law.
2025-11-14
Government Establishes Commission to Safeguard Journalists and Media Professionals

The federal government has formed a Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals aimed at ensuring the safety and rights of journalists across Pakistan.

The commission has been established under the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act 2021, following an official notification issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The commission comprises 12 members, including the Principal Information Officer of the Ministry of Information as an ex-officio member. Other notable members include the DG Ministry of Human Rights, Secretary PRA, Naveed Akbar Chaudhry from Aaj News, along with Ghulam Nabi Yousafzai, Nayyar Ali, Hassan Abbas, Tahir Hassan Khan, Tamsila Chishti, Nadia Sabohi, and Khalil Ahmed. Representatives of national and provincial press unions have also been included.

The commission’s primary responsibilities will include monitoring journalists’ rights, overseeing security measures, and recommending steps to create a safe and secure working environment for media professionals. The commission is expected to commence its work shortly and submit its recommendations to the government.

Officials said the establishment of the commission is a significant step towards protecting press freedom and ensuring that journalists can operate without fear of harassment or violence.