Pakistan to Establish Digital Media Protection Authority to Combat Fake News and Online Harms
LAHORE, Pakistan – In a move to address the growing concerns surrounding misinformation and online abuse, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar announced the establishment of a Digital Media Protection Authority. This new regulatory body aims to curb the spread of fake news, hate speech, and other harmful content on digital platforms while safeguarding freedom of expression. The minister stressed the urgency of regulating social media, emphasizing that its unchecked nature poses a significant threat to society. He highlighted the proliferation of fake propaganda, false news, online harassment, child abuse content, threats to national security, economic instability, and personal defamation as major issues requiring immediate attention.
The Digital Media Protection Authority will be composed of representatives from the private sector, press clubs, journalist organizations, and IT professionals, ensuring a balanced and inclusive approach to digital media regulation. A dedicated tribunal within the authority will be responsible for swift decision-making, with orders required within 24 hours of receiving complaints. Appeals against the tribunal’s decisions can be made to the High Court and Supreme Court, ensuring a robust legal framework. Tarar assured stakeholders that comprehensive consultations would take place before finalizing the authority’s framework.
Minister Tarar emphasized that the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) serves as the foundation for combatting fake news and addressing damages caused by online activities. He urged journalistic organizations to support the legislation, highlighting its alignment with global best practices. The minister also acknowledged the need to balance regulation with the protection of free speech, ensuring that legitimate journalistic activities are not stifled.
Beyond online regulation, Tarar addressed the detrimental impact of corruption on national institutions. He affirmed the government’s commitment to reforming institutions under the Ministry of Information, focusing on enhancing their profitability and efficiency. The minister commended APP Managing Director Asim Khichi for exposing corruption within the organization and pledged to pursue such cases to their logical conclusion. He emphasized the crucial role of national institutions like Pakistan Television (PTV), Radio Pakistan, and APP in promoting a positive image of Pakistan globally, highlighting Radio Pakistan’s historical significance in announcing Pakistan’s independence and PTV’s ongoing contribution to cultural promotion.
Recognizing the challenges faced by journalists, Tarar assured them that addressing their concerns remains a top priority for the government. He announced that the upcoming budget would include provisions for financial support to families of journalists who die in the line of duty. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare and safety of journalists, acknowledging their crucial role in a democratic society.
Tarar’s visit to the Radio Pakistan Lahore office was marked by a warm welcome, including traditional drum beats, horse dances, and rose petal showers. During the visit, he administered the oath to the newly elected APP Employees Union officials, congratulating them and emphasizing the importance of employees as a national asset. He encouraged them to uphold dedication and integrity in their service to the institution and assured them that their concerns would be addressed. The event concluded with the distribution of shields to participants and was attended by prominent figures, including PML-N leader Begum Sajida Farooq Tarar (the minister’s mother), Coordinator for Heritage and Culture Farah Diba, Director General Radio Sheikh Saeed, Bureau Chief APP Lahore Talib Hussain, and several senior journalists and media professionals. This gathering underscored the government’s commitment to engaging with media professionals and addressing their concerns.