The Free Media Movement (FMM) has called on the Government of Pakistan to immediately lift restrictions imposed on international and local journalists, warning that the measures are undermining media freedom and the public’s right to information.
In a statement, the FMM expressed concern over new laws and administrative restrictions affecting international media organisations and journalists working in Pakistan.
According to the organisation, international media outlets are now required to obtain prior government approval to report from areas outside Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. The FMM said the restrictions have hindered coverage of important events affecting the people of Pakistan.
The organisation also raised concerns that similar restrictions are being imposed on Pakistani journalists and local staff working for foreign media organisations, including requirements for registration and prior authorisation.
The FMM said the measures go beyond administrative controls and directly affect journalists’ ability to independently gather and report information on political, social and human rights issues.
It expressed particular concern over the restrictions in the context of international media coverage of developments in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, where there have been reports of the use of force by security forces. The FMM also noted Amnesty International’s calls for freedom of information and communication to be respected in relation to the situation.
The organisation warned that restricting journalists’ access to certain areas and requiring government approval for reporting could encourage self-censorship and undermine the independence of the media.
The FMM has called on the Pakistani Government to:
- Immediately lift restrictions that prevent international and local journalists from reporting freely.
- Ensure journalists can access and report from all parts of the country on matters of public interest.
- Remove unnecessary restrictions on permissions and registration for Pakistani journalists and media support staff working with foreign media organisations.
- Avoid practices that allow government authorities to influence media output.
- Ensure journalists can work safely and independently without fear or excessive state interference.
- Protect freedom of expression, media freedom and the public’s right to information in line with international human rights standards.
The FMM stressed that a free media should not be limited to reporting information favourable to the government, but should allow journalists to investigate and report on issues that are difficult, sensitive or of public importance.
As a member organisation of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the global freedom of expression network IFEX, the FMM strongly condemned the restrictions and urged the Pakistani Government to immediately restore the professional freedom of journalists and uphold the public’s right to know.
Read Full Media Release here –fmm_media reliesr_2026_08_08_(e)
