The National Press Club (NPC) Islamabad has expressed concern over the recent guidelines issued by the ministry of information’s External Publicity Wing (EP) which indicates restrictions on the movement of journalists working with foreign media organisations.
According to the guidelines issued by the EP’s Wing “NOC / No Objection Certificate” mean a certificate required for official assignment especially for the work outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi.”
It further states “All journalists residing within Pakistan, contributing to foreign media in any capacity i.e. regular, freelancer, contributory, stringer, retainer, sponsor, fixer, assignee, attached etc. shall register themselves on the portal for their mandatory registration with EP Wing”
“All foreign/international media personnel (in accordance with Guideline 4.2) already accredited or registered with EP Wing shall be required a mandatory NOC from EP Wing for movement to any other city (except Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi) in case they are going to produce a news content, story, video, film, documentary or social media content for their official use.”
In a statement, Abdur Razzaq Sial President, Dr. Furqan Rao Secretary, Finance Secretary Abid Abbasi and members of governing body of National Press Club Islamabad stated that a free and independent press is an essential pillar of every democratic society. They observed that limiting access or relating it with subject to the NoC for Pakistani journalists who are associated with foreign media outlets ‘ to different parts of the country creates unnecessary obstacles to accurate, balanced and on-ground reporting. The leadership further argued that such kind of restrictions may affect their careers, reduce employment opportunities and weaken Pakistan’s representation in global media.
The NPC leadership said that Pakistani journalists working for global media organizations have a professional responsibility to report developments from across the country. It noted that requiring NoCs to travel to different cities could create unnecessary hurdles, potentially delaying timely reporting and affecting the credibility of news coverage.
The statement further emphasized that Pakistan has traditionally welcomed foreign media during major national events, humanitarian crises, and development initiatives. The NPC leadership therefore urged the government to reconsider the notification and hold consultations with media organizations, journalist representative bodies, and other relevant stakeholders before implementing such measures.
The statement reaffirmed the National Press Club’s commitment to defending press freedom, responsible journalism and the constitutional right of the media to gather and disseminate information in the public interest as per constitution of Pakistan. It expressed hope that the government would reconsider the decision and consult with local journalists associated with International media besides adopting a balanced approach that protects both national security and the freedom of the press.
The National Press Club Islamabad stands in solidarity with its members and all journalists performing their professional duties and will continue to advocate for an environment where media professionals can work freely, safely and responsibly in accordance with the law of Pakistan.
