Violence against journalists in Pakistan

Violence against journalists in Pakistan refers to the surge in killings, abductions, assaults, threats, and enforced disappearances targeting media workers in Pakistan, encompassing a long history of threats, assaults, abductions, and killings targeting media workers. Since the 1990s, dozens of journalists have been killed in connection with their work, often with impunity for perpetrators. International organisations such as Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have described Pakistan as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, with high levels of impunity for perpetrators. They have consistently rank Pakistan poorly in press freedom indices due to violence from militant groups, political actors, and alleged state involvement. The pattern includes targeted murders, enforced disappearances, and online harassment, contributing to widespread self-censorship.

Since the beginning dozens of journalist killings, online harassment campaigns, and restrictions on reporting, contributing to widespread self-censorship. As of 2025, Pakistan ranks 158th in World Press Freedom Index.

Background

Pakistan has long been considered one of the world's most dangerous countries for journalists, with historical issues of violence linked to militant groups, political pressures, and security forces. Violence against journalists in Pakistan dates back to the 1990s, with sporadic attacks amid political instability and sectarian tensions. The early 2000s saw a surge following the US-led invasion of Afghanistan and rising militancy, exemplified by the 2002 kidnapping and murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl by militants.