ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has expressed profound concern regarding the systemic forced dismissal of media personnel, widespread non-payment of salaries, and deteriorating conditions for press freedom across Pakistan. In a formal communication addressed to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman of the Senate Yusuf Raza Gilani, and Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, the IFJ has demanded immediate government intervention to ensure job security and the enforcement of labour protections within the national media industry.

Investigation into Media Layoffs and Labour Violations

The global journalists’ body has urged the administration to initiate comprehensive investigations into recent layoffs at several prominent media houses, including Jang Group, Dunya Media Group, Aaj News, Aik News, Suno News, 365 News, and News One. The IFJ emphasized that these terminations have frequently occurred without prior notice, legal compensation, or adherence to due process. The organization specifically highlighted the plight of media professionals in the electronic, digital, and freelance sectors, who often operate outside the purview of existing labour safeguards. This situation underscores the broader necessity for industrial-scale policy reform to protect workers against exploitation.

Legal Intimidation and Press Freedom Concerns

Beyond employment instability, the IFJ voiced strong alarm over the harassment of journalists and the application of restrictive legal frameworks. The federation called for an urgent review of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and criticized the alleged misuse of Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) proceedings to suppress dissent. According to the IFJ, the sustained use of these legal mechanisms to target editorial work poses a direct threat to democratic accountability and public access to verified information.

Industry-Wide Crisis and Union Solidarity

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has formally welcomed the IFJ’s intervention. PFUJ President Rana Muhammad Azeem stated that this international solidarity is critical, noting that the government must urgently address the industry’s deepening crisis. PFUJ Secretary General Shakeel Ahmed further asserted that media owners must be held accountable for compliance with labour laws, emphasizing that the protection of media livelihoods is a non-negotiable priority for a functional society. The IFJ maintains that consistent wage payments and the repeal of draconian legal provisions are essential steps in preventing the collapse of independent journalism in the country. Previous discussions regarding regional stability and governance have highlighted the importance of institutional integrity, a standard the IFJ argues must now be applied to the protection of the Pakistani media workforce.