PPF warns of a 'bleak' year for journalists' safety in Pakistan

The Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) has warned of a "bleak" year for media safety and free expression in Pakistan, documenting at least 137 confirmed incidents targeting journalists and media professionals between January and October this year.

- Tariq Butt

In a report released to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the PPF said threats ranged from physical assaults and detentions to criminal complaints, censorship orders and internet shutdowns, despite constitutional guarantees of free expression.

The PPF urged authorities to move "beyond lip service" and implement domestic and international commitments to protect press freedom, including effective use of existing safety laws and mechanisms.

The report documented 35 incidents of physical assault and manhandling, along with two journalists injured while on assignment, five detentions, two abductions and four attacks on property, including raids.