However, the definition of a journalist was a key subject for discussion at the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting. According to journalists’ organizations, the committee chairman’s tenure should be extended by one year instead of two years as stipulated.
The meeting with Ali Zafar reviewed the Journalist and Media Professionals Protection Amendment Bill 2022. In particular, they decided to change the definition of a journalist by suggesting that it should not include anything related to sexual orientation.
Amendments and Penalty Reductions Senate
As such, many decisions were made on the amendment bill, including reducing penalties. And removing imprisonment clauses; financial penalties remained, etc. These changes were made to create an enabling climate for journalists or media personnel.
Views Expressed By The Federal Minister Senate
Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar told the committee that sexual orientation is unimportant in journalistic standards. He also stated that his government is ready to establish the Journalists Protection Commission, supported talking about funds available for projects intended to protect journalists.
Protection for Journalists
Thus, deliberations during this session underscored the need for more protection for journalists who work under very difficult conditions, thereby ensuring their safety while on assignment. The committee’s recommendations are a small step toward creating safer environments for Pakistan’s news reporters.
Next Steps
Additionally, further input from diverse stakeholders will be considered as this amendment bill is continued to be reviewed and refined in order to produce comprehensive legislation that meets the requirements of the journalism fraternity in Pakistan as well as international standards governing freedom of press and security issues.
Therefore, definitions are being changed to redefine “journalist”. Where lighter penalties shall apply. And no prison terms required because this would help create an environment where media persons are less threatened. Similarly, other provisions like the establishment of a Journalists Protection Commission. And providing money to ensure journalists’ safety are a clear indication that the government is committed to press freedom.
