UNDER FIRE: THE REALITY OF JOURNALIST SAFETY IN PAKISTAN’S MEDIA LANDSCAPE

Abstract

Journalists hold a crucial position in shaping a society that values open dialogue, factual accuracy, and the search for truth, rather than one driven by misinformation, bias, or unchecked authority. Because of this role, they frequently find themselves exposed to serious risks and therefore require specific forms of protection. This study reviews the patterns of lethal attacks on journalists over the past twenty years and evaluates how current legal and policy measures can be strengthened to offer greater security. The persistence of impunity—often linked to the politically sensitive nature of journalistic work—appears to be the primary factor behind continued violence against journalists. The article concludes that an improved protection strategy must involve raising the importance of journalist safety both domestically and internationally, ensuring that accountability and preventive measures are addressed at higher institutional levels.

The safety of journalists refers to the capacity of media workers to gather, produce, and disseminate information without encountering physical harm or moral intimidation. Many journalists face threats and violence simply for exercising their fundamental right to express and report freely.

Based on UNESCO’s research priorities concerning journalist safety, the study investigates the perceptions and experiences of Pakistani journalists working in high-risk environments: how they understand security challenges and whether they actively reduce their exposure to danger. The findings indicate that harassment from both governmental and non-governmental actors and psychological stress, including trauma, are the most frequently reported threats. Regions such as Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas were seen as particularly hazardous. Although participants claimed that they take precautions, their reported behaviors suggest that some safety measures are not consistently practiced. The journalists recommended professional safety training, policy development and enforcement, risk evaluation, counseling services, and other initiatives aimed at improving protection mechanisms.

From the journalist’s safety perspective, in Islamabad during a workshop, it was emphasized that the phrase 'a dead body cannot file a story' highlights the severe threats faced by journalists in Pakistan, particularly those reporting on crimes and conflicts in contentious areas. Journalists encounter numerous dangers while exercising their fundamental right to freedom of expression, including murder, abduction, violence, hostage taking, and harassment both online and offline, and threats. Given this context, there is an urgent need to implement protective measures and accountability systems to safeguard the press.

According to the World Press Freedom (WPF) report of 2025, the state of press freedom and the environment for journalism in Pakistan is considered extremely precarious. To mitigate risks during fieldwork, journalists should prioritize their safety by understanding local conditions, traveling with colleagues and support staff, and keeping mobile phones equipped with emergency numbers. Additionally, they should be aware of potential threats and conduct research, travel in teams, utilize tracking devices, and develop emergency plans. It is crucial to inform editors and trusted colleagues about risks, and if necessary, consider temporary or permanent changes in assignments or locations. This study highlights the various dangers faced by journalists in Pakistan and advises them on how to reduce these risks and concerns based on the recommended strategies.

This situation is not only found in Pakistan but also in developed countries. In order to improve the working conditions of journalists, these abuses and crimes have been extensively documented in authoritative reports released by the media, non-governmental organizations, and human rights defenders.