EXPLORING SECURITY RISKS AND PRESS FREEDOM CHALLENGES FOR JOURNALISTS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines the varied security challenges confronted by journalists in Pakistan, indicating how censorship extrinsic pressures, and the misuse of regulatory frameworks sabotage press freedom. Using a qualitative research design, the study frames in-depth interviews with journalists to explore their experiences. Findings show that journalists routinely encounter censorship, particularly when reporting on national security, political corruption, or organized crime. Such reporting often exposes them to anger, threats, and life-endangering situations, especially for field reporters who receive borderline institutional protection. Respondents emphasized that legal instruments such as the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, though intended to curb unethical journalistic practices, and are frequently weaponized through defamation charges to silence critical voices. This legal misuse contributes to a scary effect on investigative journalism and respondents verbalized concern about growing bias within mainstream media, driven by organizational interests and political association, which further damage objectivity and public trust while citizen journalism offers an alternative approach for independent reporting, it lacks structural support and carries important safety risks. The study tells that without wide-ranging reforms to strengthen legal protections and address institutional weaknesses, the future of independent and ethical journalism remains uncertain.