ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a rapidly shrinking space for independent journalism in the country, following the federal government’s decision to suspend official advertising for several media outlets affiliated with the Dawn group.
In a strongly worded statement, the HRCP warned that the move reflects a broader pattern of pressure on critical news organisations, undermining press freedom and limiting the public’s access to independent and diverse sources of information. The rights body stressed that financial restrictions imposed through advertising bans are increasingly being used as tools to influence editorial independence.
The commission noted that government advertising plays a significant role in sustaining media organisations, particularly at a time when the industry is already facing economic challenges. Blocking such revenue streams, it said, risks weakening newsrooms and discouraging investigative reporting that holds power to account.
HRCP further cautioned that restricting independent reporting damages democratic norms and erodes public trust in state institutions. It urged authorities to respect constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression and ensure that state resources are not used to penalise or silence dissenting voices in the media.
Calling for transparency and accountability, the commission appealed to the government to reconsider its approach and reaffirm its commitment to press freedom. It also encouraged journalists, civil society, and media stakeholders to remain vigilant in defending the right to independent reporting.
The development has sparked wider debate among media professionals and rights advocates, who view the situation as a critical test for freedom of expression in Pakistan’s democratic framework.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.