KARACHI: The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND), in its annual session, completely rejected the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) declaring it to be against freedom of expression and basic human rights. AEMEND considers that the purpose of this ordinance is to curb the freedom of media and people in violation of the basic spirit of the Constitution of Pakistan.

AEMEND demands that the government immediately and unconditionally withdraw this illegal, unconstitutional, undemocratic and anti-media PECA Ordinance. The annual session reaffirms its resolve to not only resist every black law, including PECA Ordinance but to also stand shoulder to shoulder with other media organizations, bar councils, human rights and civil rights organizations in this collective struggle.

AEMEND expresses serious concern about the overall situation of freedom of expression in the country, and understands that while it is not the responsibility of a single entity to address the problems faced by journalists in Pakistan like threats, persecution, pressures, propaganda, harassment of female journalists in particular and social media trolling, it is after all the responsibility of the government to ensure a free and safe environment for journalists to perform their duties without any pressure.

AEMEND implored the managements of all media houses to take steps for the professional training and capacity-building of journalists by conducting special courses, assuring full cooperation in these initiatives. It also demands that working, professional journalists be appointed as Editors, Directors and Head of News. This is not only beneficial for organizations and viewers but will also ensure checks and balances, implementation of the code of conduct and adherence to journalistic values.

AEMEND welcomes the establishment of a committee by Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) and All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) to address the challenges faced by journalists and media workers, and hopes that concrete and positive steps will soon be taken in this regard, as this will greatly benefit the journalistic fraternity and workers, and mitigate the prevailing unrest and financial uncertainty in the community so that there can be better focus on broader issues.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2022