On November 25, the Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals (CPJMP) held its inaugural meeting in Islamabad under the chairpersonship of Kamaluddin Tipu, formally beginning its mandated work to address complaints and strengthen protections for media workers across Pakistan.

The commission approved a formal mechanism for handling complaints from journalists and media professionals. A committee has been established to draft the commission’s rules and regulations. Additional committees were also constituted to develop training plans, welfare and insurance frameworks, and activity plans.

During the meeting, members were introduced, representing government institutions, media stakeholders, and civil society. Participants reviewed key provisions of the PJMP Act 2021, proposed amendments, a draft budget, and the operational plan for making the commission fully functional.

The commission decided to introduce digitalization measures, including the launch of a dedicated web portal to streamline processes and offer training opportunities. It also agreed to organize workshops and seminars for capacity-building of journalists and media workers.

Recommendations were shared on strengthening coordination with provincial bodies, improving rapid response mechanisms, and ensuring regular engagement with journalist unions and media houses.

The chairperson emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the commission as outlined in the PJMP Act 2021 and noted the need for timely implementation of decisions. The commission reiterated its aim to ensure independence in matters related to journalists’ safety, welfare, and professional environment.

The meeting was attended by the Principal Information Officer, the Director General of the Human Rights Commission, and representatives of journalist organizations, including Nawaz Raza, Khalil Ahmed, Tahir Hassan, Naveed Akbar, Hassan Abbas, Tamsela Qureshi, and Nadia Saboohi.