Dr Niaz Ahmed

I am fond of watching talk-shows on the evening television, where the current issues in Pakistan are discussed and debated. I am always curious and eager to learn more about what is happening in the country and the world. I am sure many of you also enjoy watching these programmes in the evening, to refresh your minds, or to see the different perspectives and opinions on the controversial issues of the day. Electronic media in Pakistan has achieved a remarkable feat of being free from state control and interference, and has grown and become powerful, exerting a huge influence on this society. This is a good thing for this society, democracy and for fostering a culture of free debate and discussion in society. We Pakistanis can be proud of being one of the freest societies in terms of freedom of expression among the developing world, and definitely on the top among the 58 states with Muslim majority populations.

However, there is also a dark side to the growth of the electronic media and its role in Pakistani society. It is being dominated by those who, in other parts of the world, might not be given even a chance to enter a news room. In many ways, the success and power of the media has attracted new media houses, owners, anchors and managers who have no experience or background in journalism, media or anything that resembles a television network. Each of the new media house has a hidden story behind it. But then, why would the professional and trained journalists want to investigate and expose the stories behind the stories of who is who of the electronic media world. Investigative journalism is a weak and risky part of the profession, because of the obvious dangers of confronting the powerful new ‘elites’ who have amassed enormous wealth by selling education, fake degrees or running industries. In many cases, a channel or channels have become a political tool of protection, intimidation and influence peddling to conceal the dubious wealth of owners. There are also other motives, agendas and powerful political interests behind some media houses.

Please, subscribe to the monthly magazines of republicpolicy.com

I believe in free media and freedom of expression. But like many of you, I am dissatisfied with the quality of anchor persons, their training, learning and even basic understanding of the complex political world shaped by history, culture, social forces and economic transitions. It is not necessary to be a ‘scholar’ to host a show, but at least the job requires pursuit of journalism as a profession, ethics, and a sense of responsibility. Honestly speaking, most of the anchors don’t sound like journalists; they come from other professions, and appear to be hired-guns for pushing the agenda of certain questionable businesses and political barons. Among such a crowd there is a professional minority engaged in meaningful and responsible conversation, but their voices and shows have been silenced by the shouting, fighting and uncouth men and women from other professions posing as journalists.

There are social and political consequences that an unprofessional and unmanaged media can create in society. One can easily notice some of the disturbing signs and effects. These are negativity about the country and society at large. We see hatred, intolerance of opposite political views, shameless presentation of fake news as ‘facts’, slander, personal attacks and discrediting of every institution of the state and society.

In fact, the image problem of Pakistan abroad is a reflection of negativism in the media at home. This has overshadowed the better, brighter and good part of Pakistan. While we may wait for genuine maturing of media, at least the fake news masters can be taken to task by the law and the courts.

Apart from the dark side of electronic media, I would suggest a few recommendations to enhance the quality of electronic media. One possible way to improve the quality of the electronic media programs objectively is to adopt and follow some standards and guidelines that can ensure the professionalism, ethics, and responsibility of the media practitioners and content. These standards and guidelines can be based on the following principles and criteria:

• Accuracy: The media programs should present the facts and information in a clear, precise, and verifiable manner, and avoid any errors, distortions, or misrepresentations. The media programs should also acknowledge and correct any mistakes or inaccuracies promptly and transparently.
• Balance: The media programs should reflect the diversity and plurality of views and opinions on the issues and topics that are relevant and important for the public interest and discourse. The media programs should also provide fair and equal opportunities for different sides and perspectives to be heard and represented, and avoid any bias, prejudice, or favoritism.
• Credibility: The media programs should establish and maintain the trust and confidence of the audience and the society, by adhering to the principles of honesty, integrity, and accountability. The media programs should also disclose and declare any conflicts of interest, affiliations, or influences that may affect their editorial independence and judgment.
• Decency: The media programs should respect the dignity, rights, and values of the individuals and groups that are involved or affected by their content, and avoid any harm, offense, or violation. The media programs should also observe the norms and laws of the society and the country, and refrain from any incitement, provocation, or promotion of violence, hatred, or intolerance.
• Excellence: The media programs should strive for the highest quality and standards of their content, by using the best practices and technologies, and by enhancing the skills and knowledge of their staff and contributors. The media programs should also seek and incorporate the feedback and suggestions of the audience and the stakeholders, and evaluate and improve their performance and impact.

Lastly, the Pakistani media landscape has undoubtedly evolved, bringing both benefits and challenges. While freedom of expression and open debate are essential for a healthy democracy, the rise of unprofessional individuals and the spread of misinformation threatens to undermine these very principles. It is imperative to address these issues to ensure that the media remains a force for good, promoting informed dialogue and fostering a more cohesive society.

Please, subscribe to the YouTube channel of the republicpolicy.com