ISLAMABAD, 02 October 2025 — Media watchdog Freedom Network condemned Thursday a government-sponsored advertisement published on the front pages of major newspapers, including The News International, for portraying journalists, freelancers, and civil society actors as potential “threats” under the label of “information warfare.”
The advertisement, issued by the Federal Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on 01 and 02 October 2025, appeared to warn social media users of an “enemy hiding behind the veil of technology and the internet.”
According to the advertisement, “Sometimes disguised as a reporter, sometimes as an NGO worker or freelancer, he extracts sensitive information from you that brings unrest, fear, and chaos to our streets.”
“Whoever wrote, designed and approved this ad has endangered the lives of journalists and civil society workers by depicting them as threats to national security. At a time when the media is already under intense pressure, this narrative is reckless and dangerous,” Freedom Network, in a statement released on 02 October, said.
The organization expressed serious concern over the ad’s reference to reporters, freelancers, and civil society organizations, calling it “deeply troubling.”
“It stigmatizes the journalism community and undermines the critical role of independent media in Pakistan. Such messaging is a direct attack on press freedom, which is a cornerstone of democracy and a fundamental right enshrined in Article 19 of the Constitution,” the statement added.
Freedom Network further warned that the ad fuels hostility against individuals who deliver reliable information to the public.
“Instead of ensuring their safety and a supportive work environment, this campaign further endangers media practitioners who already face threats, harassment, and physical violence.”
The half-page advertisement was titled: “Have you ever wondered what war looks like today?”
It went on to declare: “Today, war is no longer fought on the battlefield. It is fought in our minds. The enemy’s bullets are no longer gunpowder … it’s information.”
The ad comes amid increasing government pressure on social media platforms, especially following the imprisonment of an opposition leader whose supporters have used digital tools to demand political freedom. The crackdown on dissenting voices has grown across the country.
Critics argue that the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 is being used more to silence dissent and target journalists than to address genuine cybercrime. Legal cases against media professionals under PECA have surged, making it a “major tool” to suppress criticism of the government and state institutions.
Freedom Network called on the government to immediately withdraw the advertisement and issue a public clarification to help rebuild trust with the journalistic community.
Pakistan is currently ranked 158th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index.
DISCLAIMER Freedom Network used AI tool to edit this statement under human supervision to check facts.
