World Press Freedom Day statement

Javed Jabbar

In recent months in Pakistan, volatile conditions have developed due to the suspension of the Chief Justice of Pakistan and due to on-going threats from terrorism, religious extremism, criminal elements and power groups. The media in our country have had to face attacks on offices as well as assaults on individuals. Several journalists have paid the price of fulfilling their professional duties in dangerous areas, sacrificing their lives and, in some cases, even their family members have been killed. Many more have been injured and have been threatened with physical punishment. Even as there is unprecedented freedom of the media in Pakistan in 2007, there are also the old ghosts of the past and new demons as well.

The cause of preserving and strengthening media freedom and press freedom is a shared responsibility between all segments of society and between all citizens.

Let us renew our pledge to protect and enhance freedom of expression, freedom which is conducted with integrity, fairness and balance.

Javed Jabbar
Former Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting
Founder Citizens Media Commission of Pakistan