Pakistani journalism body criticizes new law regulating social media

Journalism groups and rights activists in Pakistan are raising alarms over a controversial new law targeting social media content, calling it a direct threat to press freedom. In response, nationwide protests have been announced for next week.

The amendments to the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), passed by parliament on Thursday, propose the creation of a powerful social media regulatory authority.

This body will oversee its investigation agency and tribunals, empowered to prosecute individuals accused of spreading "false or fake" information.

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Punishments under the new law include prison sentences of up to three years and fines of PKR 2 million ($7,200).

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the amendments in parliament, claiming the regulations were essential to tackle fake news on social media, which he said lacked specific governance mechanisms.

However, critics argue the law goes far beyond its stated aim.

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) condemned the government for bypassing consultations with journalistic bodies. PFUJ President Afzal Butt called the law an attempt to silence dissent and intimidate the media.

"We reject this unilateral decision to establish such tribunals," said Butt. "Regulations are important, but allowing law enforcement or police officers to define 'false' or 'fake' news is dangerous."

The PFUJ has vowed to launch protests across the country and escalate to a sit-in outside parliament if the law is not repealed.

Digital rights advocates have also criticized the law, warning of its potential misuse against journalists and social media users.

This backlash comes against a backdrop of increasing challenges for press freedom in Pakistan.

The country ranks 152nd out of 180 nations on the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders. The organization also notes Pakistan as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists.

As tensions rise, the government faces mounting pressure to address concerns from journalists and activists who fear this new law may erode fundamental freedoms in an already precarious media landscape.