Pakistan media faced surge in violence, suppression in 2024

In 2024, Pakistan’s media landscape has witnessed a troubling rise in violence and suppression, with at least 12 journalists killed this year alone, VOA reported yesterday.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has criticized the Pakistani government for its failure to ensure accountability for these killings, stating that deep-rooted impunity encourages further violence against media personnel. The Freedom Network reported that half of the journalists killed in 2024 were targeted due to their work.

Journalists face increasing risks of arrest and intimidation, particularly when covering sensitive issues. The government has promised to address these challenges, but skepticism remains regarding the effectiveness of proposed measures, including a new commission aimed at protecting journalists. The CPJ has highlighted the broader pattern of intimidation against those reporting on critical issues in the country.