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Federal Government Establishes Independent Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals

Islamabad (Hum Gawah News)
In a significant move to safeguard press freedom and ensure the safety of media professionals, the Federal Government has announced the establishment of the Independent Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals (CPJMP). This autonomous body will be empowered to exercise its authority and perform specific functions under the newly proposed legislation.

The decision aligns with international best practices outlined in the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to uphold journalist safety and media freedom.

Composition of the Commission:

According to official details, the Commission will comprise:

  1. Chairperson – A person with at least 20 years of demonstrated experience and knowledge in law, justice, or human rights.
  2. One Member from the Pakistan Bar Council, duly nominated by the Council.
  3. Four Senior Journalists, each with over 25 years of experience, nominated by:

Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ),

Islamabad Union of Journalists,

Karachi Union of Journalists,

Quetta and Peshawar Unions of Journalists.

  1. One Member who is the Secretary of the National Press Club (NPC).
  2. Secretaries from the Parliamentary Reporters Association and the Supreme Court Reporters Association.
  3. One Representative from the Ministry of Human Rights (ex-officio, not below the rank of Joint Secretary).
  4. One Representative from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (ex-officio, not below the rank of Joint Secretary).
  5. Secretary of the Commission – who will manage administrative tasks but will not have voting rights.

Representation and Inclusion:

To ensure gender inclusivity, it is mandated that at least three members of the Commission must be women. The Commission also holds the authority to co-opt individuals with proven knowledge or experience in journalism.

Appointment of Chairperson:

The Ministry of Human Rights, in consultation with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, will invite suggestions and conduct screening to prepare a list of eligible candidates for the position of Chairperson. The Federal Government will make the final appointment from the shortlisted names.

Objective of the Commission:

This Commission is expected to play a crucial role in:

Developing policies for the protection of journalists.

Addressing crimes against media workers.

Promoting freedom of the press.

Providing a safe and enabling environment for media professionals across Pakistan

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