Pakistani journalists face far greater threats than most others

Donald Trump says the media is the enemy of the people and dictators around the world agree

World Press Freedom Day comments for RMNP WPFD ceremony by Mr. Lawrence Pintak, veteran international journalist and founding dean of the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication, Washington State University

Journalism is under siege. The challenges and threats vary, but reporters and editors from Mardan to Minneapolis face an array of hostile forces, starting with governments. Donald Trump said the media is the enemy of the people and dictators around the world agree.

But Pakistani journalists have faced far greater threats than most others. I have seen many of my Pakistani journalist friends threatened, harassed, and jailed. I have many reporter and editor friends in difficult places around the world. But I have a particular respect my friends in Pakistan. I have watched with great respect at the bravery and dedication in the face of such profound challenges.

You may be bruised, You may be under threat every day. But you still stand tall.