On the occasion of Freedom of the Press Day, the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) organized a seminar in Islamabad to address pressing issues facing the media and to launch the innovative Journalist Alert App. Speakers at the event underscored the unity of the nation amidst Pakistan-India tensions, with the people of Pakistan standing as a "solid wall" in support of national defense. However, they expressed grave concerns over the strangulation of press freedom in the country, vowing that the struggle for media freedom would persist.

The entire nation stands united in the face of Pakistan-India tensions, with the people of Pakistan becoming a solid wall for national defense. However, freedom of press is being strangled in the country, and the struggle for media freedom will continue.

These views were expressed by speakers at a seminar held on the occasion of Freedom of the Press Day, organized by the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ). The event marked the launch of the innovative "Journalist Alert App," designed specifically for the protection of journalists.

PPP MNA Madam Sehar Kamran highlighted the crucial role of media, describing it as "the backbone of any society" that plays a vital role in the country's development and prosperity. She later shared on her social media accounts: "The media is the backbone of a thriving society, driving a nation's progress and prosperity. It stands as the first line of defense against fake news and disinformation. I deeply appreciate the Pakistani media's vital role in advancing our national narrative and exposing Indian propaganda."

She expressed her honor in joining #PCHR, #MMFD, and #PFUJ in commemorating World Press Freedom Day and launching the Journalist Alert App at the Islamabad Press Club, reinforcing their commitment to a free and responsible press. Her post concluded with the hashtag #WorldPressFreedomDay2025.

MNA Malik Abrar emphasized collective responsibility, stating that "we all must play our role in strengthening the system."

Tariq Ali Warak, President of RIUJ, pointed out the concerning global trend where censorship, oppression, and state pressure on journalists are increasing in many countries.

Azhar Jatoi, President of the National Press Club, declared the NPC as "a fortress of press freedom," asserting that no compromise will be made on freedom of the press and expression.

Former PFUJ Secretary General Nasir Zaidi described the current situation for journalists as dangerous, lamenting the absence of protection for their lives.

Fauzia Shahid, another former Secretary General of PFUJ, criticized the pattern where almost every government has introduced laws that restrict freedom of expression.

Shafiq Chaudhry explained that the newly launched Journalist Alert App will enable timely reporting of threats and challenges faced by journalists. Asad Baig, Executive Director of Media Matters, provided additional technical details about the application's functionality.

Shehryar Gardezi, Acting Secretary of NPC, reaffirmed that raising the voice for truth within the boundaries of law is every journalist's fundamental right—one that cannot be taken away.

Former RIUJ presidents Shehryar Khan, Aamir Sajjad Syed, and Abid Abbasi paid tribute to past leaders who made remarkable sacrifices for press freedom, pledging that their mission will continue. They expressed their firm stance against restrictive legislation, stating, "We will never accept black laws like PECA and will continue our struggle against it."

The seminar was also addressed by notable journalists Mateen Haider, Mujahid Barelvi, and Abdullah, Joint Secretary of APNIC, who added their perspectives on the ongoing challenges to press freedom in Pakistan.

The event highlighted both the unity of the nation during external tensions and the ongoing internal struggle to preserve the fundamental right to press freedom, which remains under significant pressure.