ISLAMABAD, Dec 13 (Diplomatic Star): A delegation of Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), led by its President Dr. Sadia Kamal, held an extensive meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi to discuss the challenges faced by journalists, particularly in securing press freedom and addressing economic hardships in the media sector.
The meeting, held at the Governor’s residence, provided a platform for the delegation to raise critical issues plaguing media workers, including financial insecurity, delayed salaries, job instability, and gender-specific concerns faced by women journalists.
Dr. Sadia Kamal began by offering a detailed overview of the pressing challenges that media professionals encounter daily.
She highlighted the struggles of journalists working in remote areas, where access to resources is minimal and risks to personal safety are heightened.
Women journalists, Dr. Sadia Kamal stressed, face disproportionate challenges in pursuing their careers, with limited opportunities and systemic barriers obstructing their progress.
“The government’s intervention is essential to protect journalists’ rights and ensure timely payment of salaries,” Dr. Kamal emphasized.
She appealed for stronger regulations to hold media houses accountable for their financial obligations to workers and called for measures to address job security in an increasingly volatile media environment.
The RIUJ General Secretary, Bilal Izaat Naqvi, supported this sentiment by presenting an outline for a nationwide capacity-building initiative.
He shared details of a project designed to train 800 journalists across Pakistan, with a specific focus on fostering the skills and participation of women in the media sector.
According to Naqvi, the program would not only enhance journalistic standards but also empower women journalists by equipping them with tools to thrive in their careers.
Naqvi elaborated on the project’s goals, including workshops tailored to address the unique challenges faced by female journalists, ensuring their full integration into mainstream media roles.
“This is not merely a training project but an initiative aimed at creating meaningful change within the media sector,” he remarked.
Listening attentively, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of journalists, acknowledging the significant role they play in sustaining democracy.
He described journalism as the “fourth pillar of democracy” and assured the delegation of the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of media professionals.
Kundi emphasized the government’s resolve to address the financial woes and professional challenges faced by journalists.
“The welfare of journalists is among our top priorities. We must formulate a comprehensive policy that not only guarantees social security but also ensures sustainable employment for media workers,” he said.
Discussing the broader significance of journalism, the Governor underscored the importance of impartiality in reporting.
He urged journalists to deliver accurate information to the public while maintaining a sense of responsibility and professionalism.
Faisal Karim Kundi also acknowledged the contribution of female journalists and recognized the specific hurdles they face in building successful careers.
He stressed the need for inclusive policies to create equitable opportunities for women in media. “Our aim is to create a level playing field for all, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he stated.
The Governor pledged to raise the issues discussed during the meeting with higher government authorities and ensure meaningful action.
He also encouraged media organizations to work collaboratively with the government to address systemic challenges in the journalism sector.
The PFUJ delegation expressed gratitude for Governor Faisal Karim Kundi’s positive response and his commitment to resolving the community’s issues.
They lauded his understanding of the critical role of the press in shaping public opinion and promoting democracy.
Dr. Sadia Kamal appreciated the Governor’s proactive approach and welcomed his assurance of initiating practical measures for journalists’ welfare.
She described the meeting as a “much-needed dialogue” and expressed hope that the government would follow through on its promises to the media community.
Addressing the financial challenges faced by journalists, Dr. Kamal reiterated that the ongoing economic difficulties in Pakistan have had a disproportionately negative impact on the media industry. With advertising revenues dwindling and increasing operational costs, many media houses have resorted to downsizing or delaying payments to workers, she noted.
“The consequences of this crisis are not just financial,” she added. “Delayed salaries and job insecurity lead to low morale and compromised journalism. This, in turn, affects the quality of information provided to the public and undermines the democratic process.”
The meeting also touched on the issue of press freedom in the country. The delegation underlined the critical need for creating an environment where journalists could operate without fear or intimidation.
Dr. Sadia Kamal stressed that ensuring a free press is not just a matter of protecting journalists but also upholding the public’s right to be informed.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi agreed, emphasizing that a strong democracy requires a strong and independent press. He assured the delegation that the government would remain vigilant against any attempts to stifle media freedom and take steps to protect journalists from undue pressures.
The PFUJ’s proposed training program also received the Governor’s endorsement. Faisal Karim Kundi noted that such initiatives are essential for improving professional standards in journalism and fostering a culture of accountability and responsibility in media reporting. He assured the delegation that the government would explore possibilities for collaboration to support these efforts.
Dr. Kamal described the meeting as “a step in the right direction,” urging continued dialogue between the government and the media community to find sustainable solutions.
“Journalists have a crucial role to play in society. We must ensure they have the support and resources they need to fulfill this responsibility effectively,” she stated.
