Pakistan has introduced new regulations imposing additional restrictions on the activities of international media organizations, drawing criticism from journalists and press freedom groups.
Under the new rules, foreign journalists and employees of international news organizations must obtain an official “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) before travelling to report from any location outside Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore.
Critics argue that the regulations make access to much of Pakistan dependent on government approval, potentially limiting independent reporting and reducing media access to sensitive regions.
Pakistani authorities, however, maintain that the new procedures are not intended to restrict journalism. Officials say the measures are designed to establish an administrative framework that improves coordination and facilitates the work of foreign correspondents.
Media experts and journalist rights organizations have warned that uncertainty surrounding the approval process, combined with the possibility of suspending or revoking accreditation on broad grounds such as “security” or “public order,” could allow for arbitrary enforcement and further constrain press freedom.
Pakistan ranks 153rd out of 180 countries in the latest World Press Freedom Index, a position that has intensified concerns among international observers about the country’s media environment.
The new regulations come amid continuing debate over the balance between national security considerations and the protection of independent journalism in Pakistan.
