Journalists in Pakistan criticize new social media law and prepare protests

The Pakistani parliament has passed a new law regulating social media, sparking outrage among journalists and human rights activists. The journalist community calls it an attempt to restrict freedom of speech and has announced plans for nationwide protests.

A new law passed by the Pakistani parliament to regulate content on social media has sparked outrage among journalists and human rights activists. The journalistic community called it an attack on press freedom and called for nationwide protests, which are due to begin next week.

Reuters reports this.

The amendments to the Electronic Crimes Act, passed on January 23, provide for the creation of a special regulatory body for social media. The body will have its own investigative agency and tribunals that can punish those who spread fake or misleading information. Violators will face prison terms of up to three years or a fine of approximately $7,200.

Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarrar said the law is aimed at combating fake news, which is currently unregulated.

Pakistan Federation of Journalists (PFUJ) President Afzal Butt criticized the law for being passed without consulting journalism organizations. He said the government was trying to suppress freedom of speech and intimidate journalists.

«We reject this unilateral decision by the government to set up tribunals. Regulations are needed, but the police or investigative agencies cannot decide what is true and what is not», — Butt stressed.

The Pakistan Federation of Journalists has announced nationwide protests. If the government refuses to withdraw the law, journalists are planning a sit-in outside the parliament building.

Digital rights activists and international organizations have also condemned the new law. «Reporters Without Borders» recalled that Pakistan ranks 152nd in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index and is one of the most dangerous countries for journalists to work in.