Islamabad, August 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised concerns over the government’s newly issued Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026, warning that the measures could further restrict independent journalism and tighten bureaucratic control over media operations in the country.
The guidelines require foreign journalists to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MOIB) before travelling to any city outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi for reporting purposes.
The new rules also lay down procedures for the registration and accreditation of foreign media organisations, outlets, journalists, media professionals, freelancers, sources, fixers, sponsors and other individuals associated with international media operations in Pakistan.
Reacting to the move, the HRCP said the guidelines could hinder independent reporting instead of supporting journalists working in the country.
“Rather than facilitating journalism, these guidelines will invariably institutionalise bureaucratic control over news gathering and risk deterring independent reporting on matters of public interest,” the rights body said.
The HRCP described the move as part of a broader pattern of restrictions on media freedom in Pakistan, pointing to what it called increasing censorship, reporting limitations and administrative barriers affecting journalists.
It said requiring journalists to seek state approval for reporting from different parts of the country sends a message that critical journalism is not welcome.
The rights organisation urged the government to withdraw the measures and uphold constitutional and international commitments related to freedom of expression.
The controversy comes amid heightened unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), where protests have reportedly resulted in more than 50 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The situation has drawn international attention over allegations of excessive use of force, communication restrictions and limitations on media coverage.
Earlier, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) had expressed concern over restrictions on journalists covering developments in PoK, including internet shutdowns, communication disruptions and alleged detention of media professionals.
The CPJ urged Pakistani authorities to restore access to information and allow independent reporting in the region.
Meanwhile, reports of difficulties accessing international media websites, including Al Jazeera, have also triggered discussions in Pakistan over internet restrictions, transparency and the public’s access to independent information during periods of political unrest.
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