ISLAMABAD (MNN); The National Press Club (NPC), Islamabad, has expressed serious concern over recently issued guidelines by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s External Publicity (EP) Wing, which introduce registration and No Objection Certificate (NOC) requirements for journalists associated with foreign and international media organisations.
According to the guidelines, an NOC is required for official assignments, particularly for journalists travelling outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. The instructions also state that all journalists residing in Pakistan and contributing to foreign media in any capacity—including regular employees, freelancers, contributors, stringers, retainers, sponsors, fixers, assignees and attached personnel—must register with the EP Wing through its designated portal.
The guidelines further state that accredited or registered foreign and international media personnel will be required to obtain a mandatory NOC from the EP Wing before travelling to any city other than Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi for the purpose of producing news reports, stories, videos, films, documentaries or official social media content.
In a joint statement, NPC President Abdur Razzaq Sial, Secretary Dr. Furqan Rao, Finance Secretary Abid Abbasi and members of the governing body said that a free and independent press was a fundamental pillar of every democratic society.
The NPC leadership expressed concern that requiring Pakistani journalists associated with international media organisations to obtain NOCs for assignments in different parts of the country could create unnecessary obstacles to accurate, balanced and on-ground reporting.
They said Pakistani journalists working with global media organisations have a professional responsibility to report important developments from across the country. Requiring prior permission for travel, they added, could result in delays in reporting, restrict access to events and affect the timeliness and credibility of news coverage.
The Press Club leaders also warned that such restrictions could adversely affect the professional careers and employment opportunities of Pakistani journalists working with international media outlets and could ultimately weaken Pakistan’s representation in the global media landscape.
The statement noted that Pakistan has traditionally welcomed foreign media coverage during major national events, humanitarian crises and development initiatives. The NPC leadership urged the government to reconsider the notification and hold meaningful consultations with media organisations, journalist representative bodies and other relevant stakeholders before implementing the proposed measures.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism, the National Press Club said journalists have a constitutional right to gather and disseminate information in the public interest, in accordance with the Constitution and laws of Pakistan.
The NPC expressed hope that the government would review the decision, consult Pakistani journalists associated with international media organisations and adopt a balanced policy that safeguards national security while also protecting freedom of the press.
The National Press Club Islamabad said it stood in solidarity with its members and all journalists performing their professional duties and would continue advocating for an environment in which media professionals can work freely, safely and responsibly within the framework of Pakistan’s law.
