MESSAGE FROM CHAIRMAN HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION FOUNDATION PAKISTAN ON WORD PRESS FREEDOM DAY.
On this World Press Freedom Day, I want to emphasize the importance of a free and independent press in our society. The media plays a critical role in informing citizens, holding those in power accountable, and promoting transparency and democracy.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has a history of media censorship and harassment of journalists. This has had a chilling effect on the free flow of information and has hindered our ability as a society to address pressing issues.
As Chairman Human Rights Protection Foundation Pakistan, I urge the government to take concrete steps to ensure press freedom and the safety of journalists. This includes allowing journalists to operate freely without fear of retribution, creating an environment that encourages open and transparent reporting, and holding those who commit acts of violence against journalists accountable.
let us commit to upholding the fundamental right to free speech and a free press. Together, we can build a society that values transparency, accountability, and human rights.
I want to highlight the importance of a free and independent press for the protection of human rights and democracy.
As the Chairman of the Human Rights Protection Foundation in Pakistan, I have witnessed firsthand the crucial role that journalists and media outlets play in exposing injustices, holding those in power accountable, and amplifying the voices of the marginalized.
However, it is deeply concerning to see that in many parts of the world, journalists face threats, violence, and censorship for doing their job. In Pakistan, we have seen a rise in attacks on journalists, with many being harassed, kidnapped, or even killed for speaking truth to power.

On this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting press freedom and supporting the journalists who put their lives on the line to bring us the news. We must stand up against any attempts to silence or intimidate the press, and ensure that journalists can work without fear of reprisals.
Let us also acknowledge the importance of fact-based reporting and the need to combat misinformation and fake news, which can be just as damaging as censorship.
I urge governments and institutions around the world to uphold the principles of press freedom and to ensure that journalists can work without fear of harassment, intimidation, or violence. A free and independent press is essential for the protection of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
I would like to take a moment to reflect on the crucial role that the media plays in protecting and promoting human rights. As the Chairman of the Human Rights Protection Foundation in Pakistan, I am keenly aware of the importance of a free and independent press in holding those in power accountable, exposing human rights violations, and giving voice to the marginalized and vulnerable.
Sadly, press freedom continues to be under threat in many parts of the world, including in Pakistan. Journalists are often subjected to intimidation, harassment, and violence simply for doing their job. The government has also imposed restrictions on the media, including censorship and the suspension of broadcast licenses. These actions undermine the fundamental human right to freedom of expression and limit the public’s access to information.
We must continue to stand up for press freedom and defend the rights of journalists to do their work without fear of reprisal. We must also demand greater accountability from those in power and work towards creating an environment that supports a free and independent media.
As we mark World Press Freedom Day, let us renew our commitment to promoting human rights and defending the essential role that a free press plays in ensuring accountability, transparency, and social justice.
Muhammad Yousuf Badar
Chairman
Human Rights Protection Foundation Pakistan.