The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed worry about the declining state of freedom of expression in the country. The HRCP highlighted that the space for independent journalism is progressively diminishing. This concern follows the removal of senior journalist Munizae Jahangir’s long-standing television show, ‘Spotlight’.
The HRCP emphasized the shrinking room for independent journalism in Pakistan, stating that there is a gradual restriction on freedom of expression. The commission urged the state to uphold the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression. It stressed the importance of safeguarding editorial independence, people’s right to information, and their right to question decisions affecting their lives.
The HRCP pointed out that the recent discontinuation of Munizae Jahangir’s program should not be viewed in isolation but as part of a broader trend of restrictions on media freedom. The commission expressed concerns that journalists who raise challenging questions or foster critical discussions are being marginalized from mainstream platforms.
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in threats against journalists between April and June 2026, with 22 reported cases nationwide. The province of Punjab recorded the highest number of incidents, totaling 15 cases. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reported three cases during the same period. The Freedom Network’s quarterly assessment highlighted these concerning trends in threats to media and journalists in Pakistan.
