Brussels (CCN) — Anthony Bellanger, Secretary-General of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), has declared Pakistan’s controversial “PECA Act” a black law and announced a global campaign against it. If the Pakistani government does not repeal this law, the IFJ will appeal to the United Nations for assistance.
A delegation led by the newly elected Secretary-General of the Pakistan Federation of Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Shakeel Ahmed, met with the IFJ at its headquarters in Brussels. The delegation included Brussels Press Club President Azim Dar, Finance Secretary Mirza Imran Baig, and Pakistan Press Club Milan (Italy) President Malik Fakhar Jeelani. The delegation provided a detailed briefing on the cases registered against journalists under the PECA Act and requested the IFJ’s support in the matter.
The IFJ also expressed concern over the murder of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya and demanded a thorough investigation in both countries.
Anthony Bellanger stated that the IFJ would write letters to Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, and Chief Justice, and involve officials from Asia-Pacific, Europe, America, Canada, and Africa in the issue. If the Pakistani government does not withdraw the law, the IFJ will seek help from the United Nations, as Pakistan is bound by the UN Charter.
The IFJ has promised to continue programs for the advanced training of Pakistani journalists. Additionally, on May 3 (World Press Freedom Day), journalist organizations worldwide will launch a major campaign in solidarity with the PFUJ against the PECA Act.
Anthony Bellanger, Secretary-General of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), has expressed grave concerns over journalist safety in Pakistan. He was reacting to the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) Secretary-General Shakeel Ahmed’s delegation, which highlighted the country’s deteriorating media landscape.
Bellanger condemned the increasing threats and attacks on journalists in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for a safe working environment. The IFJ considers the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act (PECA Act) a “black law” that restricts freedom of expression and requires amendment or repeal.
The IFJ also expressed concern over the murder of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya and demanded a thorough investigation in both countries.
The IFJ and PFUJ are urging the Pakistani government to take concrete steps to address these concerns, including amending the PECA Act, establishing a Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals, and ensuring journalists’ safety and protection
