Freedom Network is an Islamabad-based media development and civil liberties organization that works as a watchdog and facilitator for press freedom, safety of journalists and sustainability of independent public interest media. The organization’s core values are the promotion of access to information and the protection of freedom of expression, including freedom of the press and the Internet, to contribute to the development of an informed society that sees media as a key partner of democracy.

Freedom Network’s work includes monitoring and documentation of violations of press freedom and threats to journalists, research, assistance and alliance-based advocacy for the safety of journalists, and capacity-building training for the safety, gender-sensitivity, media diversity, and professional development of journalists and independent digital news outlets.

Since 2013, Freedom Network’s efforts have led to successful advocacy for legislation on the
protection of journalists. The organization has also consistently kept the issue of impunity for crimes committed against journalists in the spotlight by publishing evidence-based reports and supporting advocacy campaigns. In 2017, Freedom Network received the French Human Rights Award for defending freedom of expression in Pakistan.

The organization works closely with primary stakeholders, such as press clubs, unions of journalists, media organizations, national human rights bodies, federal and provincial government, the Parliament and provincial assemblies, policymakers, and legal fraternity as well as representatives of civil society including women’s groups and digital rights advocates.

Freedom Network was set up in the aftermath of the liberalization of Pakistan’s broadcast media sector, which led to an increase in news content and consumption but failed to produce a corresponding increase in media professionalism and ethical journalism, and the rise of terrorism in the country, which among other factors contributed to the threats to independent journalism making Pakistan one of the most dangerous places for journalists with over 150 media professionals killed in the line of duty since the year 2000.

In this context, Freedom Network sought, and continues, to reduce the risk to journalists by improving their capacity to practice journalism safely, raise public and stakeholders’ awareness about the risks faced by independent journalists, and improve the professionalism of journalists and media outlets to achieve sustainability, work ethically and embrace diversity.

For more information, please contact us at info@fnpk.org or the following landline phone number:
+92(51)236 29 24