The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) concluded its three-day Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on August 3, marking its 75th anniversary with a firm condemnation of what it termed an “escalating crackdown” on press freedom and freedom of expression.

Chaired by PFUJ President Afzal Butt, the meeting, held from August 1 to 3, ended with a unanimous declaration urging the government to withdraw proposed amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2025 and the Punjab Defamation Bill 2024.

The FEC described both legislative measures as “unjustified, anti-media, and reflective of an authoritarian mindset.” The union stated, “The federal and provincial governments must refrain from implementing anti-media and anti-freedom of expression policies, which have already damaged Pakistan’s reputation.”

The council expressed grave concern over blatant violations of fundamental rights of expression and cited arbitrary detention, harassment, and censorship as ongoing tactics used against journalists and media workers.

“The PFUJ will not tolerate attempts to curtail freedom of expression and free speech,” the council stated. “Citizens’ digital rights must be respected, protected, and preserved.”

In addition to legal concerns, the PFUJ called for an immediate end to job layoffs in both print and electronic media. It also reiterated its demand for the enforcement of the Eighth Wage Board Award and emphasized the need for a structured career path and defined pay scale for journalists, including those working in digital platforms.

The declaration further called for comprehensive safety measures for media professionals, citing the increasing risks they face in the line of duty.

The PFUJ’s statement, issued at the conclusion of its executive council meeting, underscores the union’s continued opposition to what it sees as attempts to undermine press independence in Pakistan.