FREE SPEECH UNDER SIEGE: MEDIA CENSORSHIP IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

The research paper titled “Free Speech under Siege: Media Censorship in Pakistan” delves into the complex and controversial issue of censorship within Pakistani media, shedding light on the dynamics that drive the suppression of creative and political expression. It examines the underlying factors that lead to bans or censorship, with a particular focus on the influence of political and religious entities, especially in cases where topics such as sexuality come into play. The award-winning film Joyland served as the initial case study, offering a starting point to understand the theoretical framework of censorship practices. However, the study did not remain confined to this example; it expanded its scope to encompass broader and more contemporary cases, including the political turmoil surrounding Imran Khan and the ongoing challenges faced by his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. These instances illustrate how censorship often extends beyond cultural issues to deeply impact political narratives and public discourse. Additionally, the research thoroughly reviewed existing theories and documented cases from both national and global contexts to establish a strong conceptual foundation. The study aims to critically analyse how censorship operates in Pakistan’s current media landscape, highlighting its implications for freedom of expression, cultural representation, and democratic values. These examples demonstrate how censorship extends beyond cultural or moral concerns to become a tool for political control and narrative shaping.