Deadly Year for Journalists in Pakistan: Impunity Report 2024

In recent years, the safety of journalists in Pakistan has become a pressing concern, with alarming reports highlighting the dangers they face while performing their duties. The year 2024 has been particularly deadly, as documented by the media watchdog Freedom Network in its "Impunity Report 2024". This report reveals that six media practitioners and a YouTuber have been targeted and killed, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures for those who risk their lives to inform the public.

The report outlines a staggering 57 violations against journalists, which include threats, assaults, and legal harassment. These incidents reflect a troubling trend of impunity, where perpetrators of violence against media professionals often go unpunished. Despite the existence of laws such as the Sindh Protection of Journalists and Other Media Practitioners Bill 2021 and the federal Protection of Journalist and Media Professional Act 2021, the enforcement of these laws remains weak. Freedom Network Executive Director Iqbal Khattak emphasized that without effective implementation, these laws do little to protect journalists, leaving them vulnerable to attacks.

Between November 2023 and August 2024, the report documented 11 assassination attempts, including five murders of journalists. Sindh emerged as the most dangerous province for journalists, accounting for 37% of the recorded violations. Punjab followed with 23%, while Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan also reported significant incidents. TV journalists were particularly affected, facing 53% of the total cases, while women journalists represented 9% of those threatened.

The report also sheds light on the actors behind these threats, with government authorities being implicated in 47% of the cases. This alarming statistic raises questions about the safety of journalists and the role of state actors in perpetuating a culture of fear. Furthermore, the introduction of Pakistan’s first-ever "Media Impunity Index" aims to evaluate the progress made in combating impunity at both federal and provincial levels. While Sindh scored the highest with nine points out of ten, Punjab lagged behind with just one point, highlighting the disparities in the protection of journalists across the country.

Addressing the issue of impunity is crucial for ensuring media freedom in Pakistan. With an average of six violations reported each month, it is clear that a coordinated effort between the state, media, and civil society is urgently needed. The federal government's delay in establishing a safety commission for journalists, as mandated by law, further complicates the situation. Meanwhile, Sindh's commission remains inactive, despite being notified.

The challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan are significant and multifaceted. The findings of the "Impunity Report 2024" serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders involved. It is imperative that the government takes immediate action to enforce existing laws and create a safer environment for journalists. Only through collective efforts can we hope to protect those who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of truth and justice, ensuring that the voices of the media are not silenced by fear.