Dr Bilawal Kamran
The ongoing movement against the deeply problematic Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the recent amendments made to it is beginning to gain momentum, drawing increasing attention from journalists, civil society, and rights activists. The law, which many view as a threat to the fundamental right to freedom of expression, has faced mounting criticism, and this resistance is now gaining ground. It is encouraging to see that journalists across Pakistan have honored their commitment to stand against any efforts to curtail press freedom. Through protests, lawsuits, and public awareness campaigns, they have rallied to make their voices heard in opposition to the controversial law.
Even more heartening is the fact that numerous rights activists and civil society groups are joining this resistance, uniting their voices in the hope that collective action may pressure the government to reconsider its stance. This growing alliance is crucial in amplifying the call for the protection of free speech and the rights of individuals to express their views without fear of retribution or censorship.
One of the most significant recent developments in this movement occurred last Thursday, when a joint consultation took place at the Karachi Press Club. The event was organized by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) in collaboration with the Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ). The consultation culminated in a powerful statement rejecting the PECA Amendment Act, 2025, which participants deemed to be in violation of fundamental freedoms.
The insights shared during the consultation added depth to the debate, illustrating the broader implications of the amendments. One of the speakers emphasized that the law’s impact extends beyond social media platforms and affects any media outlet that publishes content on digital platforms. This observation underscores the far-reaching nature of the law, which could potentially silence a wide range of voices, from journalists to independent bloggers and activists. Another speaker pointed out that while many laws and regulations are created with the intention of maintaining order or safeguarding the public, they can be misused to target media professionals, political figures, and rights activists. This observation echoes concerns about the potential for abuse, where laws originally designed to protect public safety may ultimately be wielded as tools of oppression.
A former president of the Karachi Press Club (KPC) added that the situation is even more dire, with press workers and ordinary citizens no longer able to rely on state institutions, including the judiciary, for protection against excesses. This bleak reality was highlighted following the passing of the 26th Amendment, which many believe has further eroded the rights of those standing up for truth and justice. In the words of the HRCP chairperson, the issue extends beyond journalism; it is a political matter, a labor issue, and a concern for anyone who defends truth in the face of adversity. This statement serves as a reminder that the struggle to protect fundamental freedoms is not exclusive to media workers but affects every citizen who values free expression and the right to hold power accountable.
Simultaneously, in Islamabad, the president of the PFUJ made it clear that the movement would not back down. Despite the government’s attempts to push the PECA amendments through, he vowed that journalists would continue to protest, even if the courts also endorse the law, much like Parliament has. This unyielding determination to fight for freedom of expression is a testament to the resilience of the journalistic community, who remain steadfast in their mission to uphold the principles of democracy and transparency.
Across the country, journalists have been organizing hunger strike camps in major cities such as Lahore, Sukkur, Peshawar, Hyderabad, Quetta, and others. These protests represent a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for free speech, signaling that civil society is ready to take a stand against laws that threaten basic rights. The hunger strikes, in particular, highlight the gravity of the situation and the willingness of media professionals to sacrifice their personal comfort in pursuit of a larger cause.
This battle for fundamental freedoms is not one that belongs solely to the media. It is a fight that affects every citizen, as the erosion of free speech ultimately impacts the democratic fabric of the nation. Journalists and press workers have taken a courageous step by leading this charge, but the struggle must not stop there. Other social groups, organizations, and individuals who recognize the importance of free expression should join in solidarity, exercising their constitutional rights and speaking out against laws that infringe upon their ability to voice their opinions. The right to free speech is essential to a thriving democracy, and it is incumbent upon all citizens to defend it.
At the same time, the government must reconsider its approach to handling criticism and dissent. Instead of seeking to silence opposing voices, the government should acknowledge the valid concerns raised by journalists, activists, and the broader public. Dismissing these concerns as unfounded or irrelevant only further alienates citizens and undermines trust in state institutions. The government must engage in meaningful dialogue with civil society, listening to their grievances and addressing the genuine fears about the potential misuse of the PECA amendments. It is only through such a dialogue that the government can begin to restore faith in its commitment to protecting fundamental rights and freedoms.
The movement against the PECA and its amendments has shown that there is still hope for the preservation of democratic values in Pakistan. While the struggle ahead remains daunting, the unity and determination displayed by journalists, civil society groups, and rights activists provide a powerful reminder that the fight for freedom of expression is not easily quelled. It is a fight that must be won, not just for the media but for every citizen who believes in the power of free speech to shape a just and accountable society.
