Much awaited protection of journalists, media professionals bill finally lands at NA.

ISLAMABAD: The much-awaited Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Bill, 2021, aimed at protecting journalists and media professionals, finally landed in the National Assembly here on Friday.

Parliamentary Secretary for Human Rights Lal Chand introduced a bill to promote, protect and effectively ensure the independence, impartiality, safety, and freedom of expression of journalists and media professionals (The Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Bill, 2021) in the House. The law would offer "journalists and media professionals' right to carry out their journalist work in conflict-affected areas within the country, without threats, intimidation, harassment or fear of persecution or targeting.

Under the bill, the government would take all steps to protect journalists and media professionals from all forms of abuse, violence, and exploitation at the hands of any person, institution (private or...