Media Stakeholders Express Concern Over Proposed Defamation Bill
A recent joint statement by media stakeholders in Pakistan has raised serious concerns over the proposed Punjab Defamation Bill 2024 and the federal government’s plan for a ‘Digital Media Authority’. The Joint Action Committee, comprising key industry players such as the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) and the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), highlighted the draconian nature of the bill in its current form.
While not opposed to strengthening defamation laws or regulating digital media, the media bodies emphasized the need for a balanced approach that upholds freedom of expression. They called for meaningful consultations with all stakeholders to address weaknesses in the proposed legislation and ensure individual rights are protected.
The statement urged the Punjab and federal governments to engage in extensive discussions with media organizations before passing the bill, emphasizing the importance of democratic principles and fairness in any new laws. The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) also rejected the draft legislation, warning against rushing through changes that could restrict freedom of expression.
As the industry continues to advocate for a more balanced and democratic approach to media regulation, the need for meaningful dialogue and consultation remains paramount.