On April 29, Hameed Haroon, the former president of All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) and CEO of DawnMedia, highlighted the significant challenges currently faced by the media industry in Pakistan. During the programme entitled ‘APNS Talks,’ Haroon, a prominent figure in Pakistani journalism, articulated concerns about the ongoing pressures on independent journalism and the overall decline in media freedom in the country. Haroon said that governments in the country have long adopted an “anti-media attitude.”

The session, moderated by journalist Mazhar Abbas, discussed Haroon’s extensive career. Haroon described how Dawn, a newspaper founded with aspirations tied to key figures like Jinnah and Liaquat Ali Khan, has been “crippled” through advertisement bans and “conspiracies.”

Haroon reflected on the historical context, recalling that even during stringent martial law periods under leaders like Pervez Musharraf, there was some restraints on actions against the press. However, today’s scenario is one of the “law of the jungle,” where actions were taken without hestitation.

He emphasised that not only the media but also other institutions like the judiciary are under attack, which include arbitrary transfers of judges.

The discussion also covered the financial struggles faced by Dawn, which Haroon said was “surviving on a shoestring” due to the dual pressures of government and private advertisements being blocked. He stressed the need for media organisations to work together and to adapt and innovate to attract younger audiences and ensure economic viability.

Haroon dismissed the notion of entering politics, reaffirming the incompatibility of holding media and political roles simultaneously. He also shared his personal interests, particularly his passion for music and the arts, which remain central to his life even after retiring from an active role in journalism.

Haroon advocated for permanent employment for journalists as a foundation for maintaining professional journalism standards.