Pakistan Imposes New Restrictions on Foreign Media Outlets and Local Staff
Summary
Pakistan has imposed new restrictions on foreign media outlets and local staff working for them, requiring permits for travel and registration with the government. Human Rights Watch says the move threatens independent journalism and could deepen self-censorship.
Key Points
- Foreign media outlets and their Pakistani staff now face tighter government controls, including travel limits and mandatory registration.
- Journalists, fixers and other local staff working for foreign outlets will need government permission from Thursday onwards.
- Human Rights Watch called the restrictions a worrying blow to press freedom and urged them to be withdrawn immediately.
- Pakistan’s Information Ministry and army have not publicly explained the new measures, which also affect reporting in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
