The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has urged Pakistan’s Supreme Court to urgently review the recent PECA amendments, warning they pose a serious threat to press freedom and journalist safety. In a letter to the Chief Justice, the IFJ raised concerns that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) now has unchecked authority to act without formal complaints — a move the federation believes could suppress independent journalism.
Expanded Government Powers Spark Alarm
Passed earlier this year under a supplementary agenda, the PECA (Amendment) Act 2025 gives the state broader powers to control online content. It authorizes the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to block content, penalize users, and monitor various digital platforms, including websites, apps, and communication tools. The FIA’s Cybercrime Wing has also been replaced by a stricter enforcement body.
Three-Year Jail for Sharing Expunged Material
Under the revised law, individuals who post content expunged from parliamentary or provincial assemblies can face up to three years in jail and a fine of Rs2 million. The IFJ called this clause overly harsh and warned it could criminalize legitimate journalistic work.
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Legal Harassment of Journalists
The IFJ emphasized that journalists are facing harassment, legal threats, and violence under PECA. The federation cited seven journalist killings in the past year, none of which led to convictions. Their latest report documented 34 violations — including intimidation, physical attacks, and online hate campaigns.
Appeal to Uphold Article 19
The IFJ also criticized a new process that bypasses high courts in favor of direct appeals to the Supreme Court, calling it a “circumvention of judicial process.” The letter further highlighted legal barriers to unionization and the growing financial and security challenges media workers face.
The IFJ concluded its appeal by urging immediate judicial review of PECA and called on the government to consult with stakeholders like the PFUJ to safeguard freedom of expression under Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution.
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