Freedom of Expression in Pakistan: The Reality in 2024

In 2024, freedom of expression in Pakistan is under serious threat, with escalating restrictions on journalists, activists, and citizens who attempt to voice their opinions or dissent. The suppression of free speech has intensified, as seen through increased violence, legal harassment, and regulatory measures targeting media practitioners and online platforms.

Journalists and Media Practitioners Under Attack

According to the Pakistan Freedom of Expression and Media Report 2024 by the civil liberties group Freedom Network, 104 cases of violations against journalists and other media practitioners were documented between May 2023 and April 2024. These included 4 journalists killed, with two killed in Sindh and two in Punjab. The documented violations ranged from murders, attacks, injuries, kidnappings, threats, and legal cases targeting media workers​(FNPk).

One of the most shocking incidents was the murder of senior journalist Muhammad Siddique Mengal on May 3, 2024, in Khuzdar, Balochistan. An unidentified motorcyclist planted a bomb in Mengal’s vehicle, resulting in his death and the injury of six others. This attack, along with the death threats received by other prominent journalists like Hamid Mir, reflects the dangerous climate for journalists trying to perform their duties​(Civicus Monitor).

Digital Freedom and Online Censorship

The government imposed a nationwide suspension of the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) in February 2024, coinciding with political protests and allegations of election rigging. This suspension aimed to restrict democratic accountability and real-time information sharing during a contentious election period​(Civicus Monitor).

The government has also sought to further control digital expression through amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. The amendments introduced the Digital Rights Protection Agency (DRPA), giving it broad powers to investigate and penalize individuals for online content considered "anti-state." These measures have been widely criticized as attempts to institutionalize censorship, suppress dissent, and force technology companies like Google, Facebook, and YouTube to share user data with Pakistani authorities​(FNPk).

Restrictions on Peaceful Assembly and Protests

Beyond online censorship, the right to peaceful assembly has also been stifled. For example, in April 2024, farmers protesting against wheat pricing policies in Lahore were detained, highlighting how authorities are clamping down on dissent across different sectors of society​(Civicus Monitor).

The Role of Democracy and Human Rights Alliance

The Democracy and Human Rights Alliance is deeply concerned about the erosion of freedom of expression in Pakistan. We are committed to advocating for the protection of journalists, activists, and citizens who speak out against injustice. Our organization actively works to:

• Provide Legal Support: Assisting those who face legal actions for exercising their right to free speech.

• Advocate for Policy Reforms: Engaging with stakeholders to challenge repressive laws and ensure that freedom of expression is protected in Pakistan.

The Path Forward

Defending freedom of expression is crucial for maintaining democracy and human rights. The government must be held accountable for these restrictions, and citizens must stand together to protect their right to speak freely without fear of violence, harassment, or legal persecution.

For further details on the state of freedom of expression in Pakistan, you can access the full reports from the Freedom Network and Civicus Monitor.