PAKISTAN MEDIA MONITOR – February 2026
A monthly report on trends relating to state of journalism and media rights, policies and practices
Tracking:
Media related laws, policies and regulations
The state of media professionalisms
The state of media economy
Threats and attacks against journalists and information practitioners
Vol. 6, No. 2 – February 2026 Edition
Produced by Freedom Network – www.fnpk.org
SECTION 1: Media related laws, policies, regulations, mechanisms
- Freedom of expression (FOE)
- Right to information (RTI), access to information (ATI)
- Federal and provincial governments (relevant ministries and departments)
- Media related regulators (PPC, PEMRA, PTA)
- Regulatory issues related to print, electronic and digital media
‘In a hurry’: National Assembly passes PEMRA, two other media-related bills
Date: February 7, 2026 – Source: Dawn
In a session that lasted only 15 minutes, the National Assembly passed three bills – the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Associated Press of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill 2025, and the Newspapers Employees (Conditions of Service) (Amendment) Bill 2025.
ECP notifies Regulations for Right of Access to Information 2026
Date: February 12, 2026 – Source: Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN)
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) notified the Regulations for the Right of Access to Information, 2026, that, subject to certain conditions, allows every Pakistani citizen to access information held by the electoral body.
Punjab Information Commission orders PKLI to release procurement record in RTI case
Date: February 15, 2026 – Source: The News
The Punjab Information Commission (PIC) ordered the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute and Research Center (PKLI) to provide complete procurement-related information sought by a citizen under the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act, 2013.
SECTION 2: The state of media professionalisms
- Media independence issues
- Public interest journalism practices and challenges
- Ethical journalism issues
- The state of thematic journalism
- Community-focused media
- Misinformation / disinformation / fake news
Glorification of abuse in entertainment media
Date: February 1, 2026 – Source: The News
Much has been written on this subject, and more will be until the media stops glorifying those trapped in abusive relationships. Abuse is a broad term, encompassing verbal, physical, psychological, emotional, and financial maltreatment.
Journalism without witnesses in the age of exile and shutdowns
Date: February 1, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
As journalists are jailed, forced into exile or cut off by internet restrictions, reporting increasingly relies on secondhand accounts, leaks and remote verification. This reduces transparency, weakens context and raises the risk of misinformation.
Information minister for promoting quality film production
Date: February 2, 2026 – Source 1: Dawn, Source 2: Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar chaired a meeting to review projects under the Directorate of Electronic Media and Publications, pledging government support to boost quality film production in Pakistan.
PEMRA without leadership as appointment awaits Prime Minister’s approval
Date: February 6, 2026 – Source: Dawn
While the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has remained without a chairperson since October 2025, a summary for the appointment of Ambreen Jan as head of PEMRA remains pending with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) for over a month.
Television news priorities questioned after Islamabad blast
Date: February 6, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Dozens were killed and over 100 injured in a suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad. Critics questioned why many television channels continued Basant festival programing for hours before shifting to live coverage of the attack and emergency response.
Date: February 8, 2026 – Source: Dawn
Film production may be down worldwide but the situation is downright critical in Pakistan. With the Pakistani under-production slate nearly exhausted, it seems the two Eids will continue to be every filmmaker’s only safe spot to release their films.
Date: February 8, 2026 – Source: The News
Social media addiction endangers the physical and mental health of adolescents, whose limited life skills heighten vulnerability. Governments are beginning to impose safeguards, while families, schools, and workplaces must foster real-world connection to counter the isolation of excessive online use.
What constitutes “fake news” in PECA tweaks, asks Islamabad High Court judge
Date: February 10, 2026 – Source: Dawn
Justice Raja Inaam Minhas of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) questioned how “fake news” is defined under the amended Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), during hearings on petitions by journalists who argue the changes erode free speech.
Why journalists are turning to LinkedIn for reporting and audience growth
Date: February 10, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Journalists are increasingly using LinkedIn to publish reporting, analysis and source queries that reach executives, policymakers and subject experts, while also monitoring early corporate statements. It helps sourcing and professional engagement.
Why angry content drives online traffic and engagement
Date: February 11, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Studies find anger-provoking content yields more clicks, comments and shares, so recommendation algorithms boost such posts as signals of relevance. Media outlets and creators often use outrage to increase visibility and advertisement revenue.
What makes a news story go viral, and how digital reach works
Date: February 12, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Virality emerges from a mix of timing, emotional resonance, early engagement and the structure of online networks, amplified by platform algorithms. Visuals, influencers and trending relevance boost sharing and accelerate reach across social media.
Five structural reforms Pakistan’s media urgently needs
Date: February 12, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Pakistan’s media faces legal, economic and digital pressures undermining independence and sustainability. Reforms urged include clearer cybercrime safeguards, fair advertising allocation, regulatory transparency and stronger protections for journalists.
President assents to appointment of Ambreen Jan as PEMRA chairperson
Date: February 12, 2026 – Source: The News
President Asif Ali Zardari approved the appointment of Ambreen Jan, former federal information secretary, as chairperson of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).
What editorial independence means and why it matters
Date: February 15, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan
Editorial independence means newsroom leaders decide coverage based on professional standards, free from undue influence by owners, politicians or state actors; it preserves journalistic credibility and the public’s access to reliable information.
Date: February 20, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The federal law minister rightly noted that journalism demanded responsibility and accuracy. Yet journalists’ ability to uphold these standards is often hindered by opaque institutions and uncooperative officials, making transparency in matters of public interest elusive.
Breathe Pakistan partners with Alertli to boost climate reporting
Date: February 27, 2026 – Source: Dawn
Breathe Pakistan, a climate change awareness initiative by Dawn Media, partnered with Alertli, an AI-based socially intelligent platform, to strengthen citizen-led climate reporting and resilience efforts across Pakistan.
SECTION 3: The state of media economy
- Economic landscape of media industry
- Impact of Covid-19 on media resilience and sustainability
- Government and private advertising for media industry
- Advertising sector and its interface with media industry
- Business viability and sustainability of media
- Wages, salaries and arrears of journalists and media practitioners
APNS concerned over ban on government advertisements for Dawn group
Date: February 4, 2026 – Source 1: Dawn, Source 2: The Nation, Source 3: Business Recorder (BR)
A press release issued by the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) expressed concern over the “complete stoppage” of government advertisements to Dawn Media Group, calling the ban unjust and an attack on freedom of expression.
PEMRA’s Rs32 billion demand notices to television channels declared illegal
Date: February 12, 2026 – Source 1: The News, Source 2: Pakistan Today
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) declared illegal the demand notices worth Rs32 billion issued by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to 23 television channels for the recovery of five percent of their annual advertisement income.
Court stays PCB’s termination of media rights agreement
Date: February 13, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The Lahore High Court (LHC) suspended the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) termination of its media rights agreement with Tower Sports, after the company petitioned that the PCB had unilaterally ended the contract via email, without the mandatory 30-day notice.
APNS expresses gratitude for payment of dues
Date: February 15, 2026 – Source 1: The News, Source 2: Business Recorder (BR)
The All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) expressed its gratitude to Muzzammil Aslam, Finance Advisor to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, for approving the disbursement of long-pending dues owed to newspapers.
Revenue authorities act against 38 content creators
Date: February 28, 2026 – Source 1: Pakistan Today, Source 2: Business Recorder (BR)
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) began recovery proceedings against 38 prominent YouTube and TikTok content creators over alleged concealment of income amounting to Rs15 billion.
SECTION 4: Threats and attacks against media and information practitioners, including online
- Murders and killings
- Kidnappings and abductions
- Arrests and detentions
- Threats – verbal and written
- Harassment and intimidation – offline and online
- Surveillance, hacking and data breaches
- Legal cases for journalism-related work or free speech
- Impunity of crimes against journalists
- Censorship
Lahore High Court dismisses bail plea by journalist
Date: February 1, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
The Lahore High Court (LHC) dismissed journalist Sohrab Barkat’s bail application in a third case, keeping him in custody for over two months. His lawyer said that the ruling cited an absconder designation tied to the Federal Investigation Authority (FIA) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
Pakistan media highlights: January 2026 roundup
Date: February 1, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
January 2026 in Pakistan’s media included convictions handing life terms to several journalists and YouTubers for alleged digital terrorism, platform closures, retirements, and growing concerns over journalists’ financial hardship, health and press freedom.
Date: February 2, 2026 – Source: Dawn
A court ruling sentencing lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha to 17 years over social media posts drew global attention. Instead of silencing dissent, it triggered widespread condemnation. The verdict, punishing even a reposted tweet, highlighted a justice system quick to penalize dissent.
Strategies for investigative journalism under pressure: Insights from Pakistan
Date: February 2, 2026 – Source: Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN)
Journalists in Pakistan face detention, harassment, and sweeping cases that end without accountability. Those investigating corruption, security, militancy, or elite power work with little protection under a hybrid political system where authority and accountability remain blurred.
Woman journalist reportedly taken off air, prompting questions from media colleagues
Date: February 2, 2026 – Source 1: Journalism Pakistan (JP), Source 2: Media Bites
Journalist Nasim Zehra’s sudden absence from her Channel 24 show sparked concern in media and political circles. Viewers questioned the suspension on social media after her program failed to air. With no explanation from the channel, speculation grew over possible external pressure.
Quiet steps erode press freedom in Pakistan and beyond
Date: February 2, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Press freedom in Pakistan and globally is eroding as regulatory, legal and economic shifts, including tougher cybercrimes and defamation measures, reliance on state advertising and proposed platform rules, stifle reporting and undermine independent outlets.
PPF alarmed over show-cause notice served on Geo News
Date: February 3, 2026 – Source: Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)
The Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) expressed alarm over a show-cause notice issued by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to Geo News for what it claimed was the presentation of “biased opinion” about trial proceedings involving lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha.
Islamabad court settles social media post dispute after journalist forgives accused
Date: February 3, 2026 – Source: Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)
An Islamabad district and sessions court resolved a legal matter involving a social media post, following a settlement between journalist Rauf Klasra and the accused, identified as Zain, which concluded with the court granting bail to the accused after the journalist forgave him.
FCC disposes of Arshad Sharif suo motu as probe still ongoing
Date: February 4, 2026 – Source 1: Dawn, Source 2: Express Tribune, Source 3: Arab News
The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) disposed of a suo motu case initiated on the killing of journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya, ruling that judicial oversight of an ongoing investigation was impermissible under Pakistani law.
Pakistan’s human rights crisis: HRW flags suppression of journalists and activists
Date: February 4, 2026 – Source 1: Human Rights Watch (HRW), Source 2: Open Magazine
In its World Report 2026, Human Rights Watch (HRW) raised concerns over Pakistan’s human rights record in 2025, accusing authorities of systematically suppressing media freedom, political dissent, and civil society through vague and overboard laws.
Pictures of CM Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, others match with CNICs in Radio Pakistan attack case
Date: February 5, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) claimed in a forensic report that the profile pictures of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and four others, related to the 2023 Radio Pakistan attack in Peshawar, had a probable match with their national identity cards (CNICs).
CPJ calls for release of detained journalist
Date: February 5, 2026 – Source: Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) called on Pakistani authorities to “immediately and unconditionally” release detained journalist Sohrab Barkat and ensure that his employer Siyasat.pk can continue to report the news freely.
Date: February 6, 2026 – Source: Dawn
United Nations rapporteurs’ concerns over the convictions of Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha highlight that lawyers’ free expression must not be equated with terrorism. Their observations, though not official UN positions, deserve serious consideration despite Pakistan’s right to enforce its laws.
Radio Pakistan counsel claims Peshawar police probe into May 9 cases ‘flawed’
Date: February 8, 2026 – Source: The News
In the May 9 building ransacking case, Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) lawyer questioned the Peshawar police investigation, stating that the police conducted a “flawed” investigation in this case.
Journalist released after detention at airport
Date: February 9, 2026 – Source 1: The News, Source 2: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Journalist Bilal Ghauri was released a few hours after he was stopped and detained by immigration officials at the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi as he attempted to travel to Dhaka to cover Bangladesh’s February 12 parliamentary elections.
Why governments are tightening control over online platforms
Date: February 9, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Governments are expanding laws, technical controls and platform rules to regulate social networks and messaging services, citing security, child protection and misinformation. These moves, used also to suppress dissent, are eroding internet freedom worldwide.
Date: February 9, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Pakistan’s Federal Constitution Court (FCC) said it could not continue oversight of the investigation into journalist Arshad Sharif’s killing in Kenya. His family and media groups warned the ruling undermined accountability for cross-border attacks on journalists.
Fear in the newsroom: How it shapes editorial decisions
Date: February 10, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Fear of legal action, regulatory scrutiny, lost advertising and political backlash prompts Pakistani editors to alter, delay or drop investigative stories. This anticipatory self-restraint reduces the scope of public reporting.
Lower court revokes journalist’s bail
Date: February 11, 2026 – Source: Journalism Pakistan (JP)
Journalist Sohrab Barkat, detained for over 75 days, had one of his approved bails rescinded by an Islamabad lower court despite no apparent evidence of violation or new offence. His final bail remains pending before the Supreme Court, where his counsel plans to appeal.
Judge seeks report on social media use by minors
Date: February 12, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued notices to the federal government, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), seeking a report on measures to regulate minors’ access to social media.
AEMEND, PBA condemn ‘abduction’ of journalist
Date: February 14, 2026 – Source: The News
The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) condemned the alleged abduction of Khurram Iqbal, a journalist associated with Hum News, and demanded his “immediate and safe” recovery.
Journalist released after questioning amid uproar
Date: February 14, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) reportedly released journalist Khurram Iqbal just hours after he was forcibly taken by “unidentified men” from his sister’s residence in Lahore.
Supreme Court grants bail to journalist in PECA case
Date: February 19, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The Supreme Court granted post-arrest bail to journalist Sohrab Barkat against surety bonds of Rs200,000 in a case filed under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). He faces allegations of disseminating false information about state institutions during an interview he conducted.
Journalist’s plea over court’s jurisdiction dismissed
Date: February 19, 2026 – Source: Dawn
An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) dismissed journalist Matiullah Jan’s plea challenging its jurisdiction in a case involving the alleged recovery of arms and narcotics, and set the matter down for indictment.
Officials verify: Item seized from journalist’s vehicle not contraband
Date: February 20, 2026 – Source 1: Dawn, Source 2: Daily Times
A forensic report submitted to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) marked a pivotal shift in the narcotics and terrorism case against journalist Matiullah Khan, confirming the seized substance from his vehicle was not an illicit drug.
Islamabad High Court issues notices to NCCIA on Imaan, Hadi conviction appeals
Date: February 20, 2026 – Source: Dawn
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued notices to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in response to appeals filed by Imaan Mazari and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, challenging their conviction in the controversial tweets case.
Non-bailable warrant reissued for KP Chief Minister in PECA case
Date: February 22, 2026 – Source: Dawn
A local court in Islamabad reissued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi after he failed to appear before it in a case pertaining to derogatory remarks against state institutions.
PECA cases against PTI leader disposed of as withdrawn
Date: February 22, 2026 – Source 1: The News, Source 2: Daily Times
An Islamabad court disposed of two pre-arrest bail applications filed by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leader Shandana Gulzar in cases registered under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), after her counsel withdrew the pleas following relief granted by the Islamabad High Court (IHC).
Balochistan convention rejects “oppressive” press laws
Date: February 26, 2026 – Source: Dawn
Jointly organized by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists and the Balochistan Union of Journalists in Quetta, a convention rejected oppressive laws, including the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), that impose restrictions on media freedom.
OBJECTIVES: This series of monthly report aims to:
- Monitor the state of policies, regulations and mechanisms governing the media sector in Pakistan; the state of freedom of expression and right to information environment in the country and how these interfaces with media freedoms allowed or restricted via media regulations governed by the print, electronic and internet regulators.
- Track the state of media professionalisms in the country including ethical and public interest journalism practices and challenges, and the challenges of misinformation, disinformation and fake news phenomena.
- Follow the changing economic dynamics of the media industry and how they impact the business viability and sustainability of media and exploitation of media staff in lieu of their wages and arrears.
- Scrutinize threats and attacks against media and information practitioners, the state of impunity of crimes against journalists and efforts to provide justice for those aggrieved and distressed.
INFORMATION SOURCES: This report monitors, among others, the following sources of information:
- Government: Federal and provincial cabinets
- Ministries: Related ministries, including Information and Broadcasting, Information Technology (IT) and Telecom, Human Rights, Science and Technology, Commerce and Industry, etc.
- Legislatures: Senate, National Assembly, provincial assemblies, relevant standing committees
- Regulators: Pakistan telecommunications Authority (PTA), Pakistan Electronic Media regulatory Authority (PEMRA), Press Council of Pakistan (PPC), State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), etc.
- Global organizations: UN/Unesco, International Media Support (IMS), Reporters Without Borders (RSF), International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Amnesty International (AI), Human Rights Watch (HRW), etc.
- National organizations: Digital Rights Foundation (DRF), BoloBhi, Media Matters for Democracy (MMFD), Institute for Research, Advocacy and Development (IRADA), Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), etc.
- Media: Dawn, The News, Express Tribune, The Nation, Pakistan Today, The Friday Times, etc.
- Social Media:Facebook, Twitter, etc.
- Local networks: Journalists Safety Hubs Network, Alliance on Diversity & Pluralism in Media, etc.
- Any other open public information sources.
