Key Takeaways
- The Commission for Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals has launched a manual complaint mechanism.
- The system will transition to an online portal once fully developed.
- The commission aims to protect media workers and address their grievances.
The Commission for Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals has initiated a new system to receive complaints from journalists and media professionals, effective immediately. This move is part of a broader effort to safeguard the rights and welfare of media workers in Pakistan.
At the commission’s third meeting, held on Tuesday, chaired by Chairman Kamal Uddin Tipu, it was decided that complaints will initially be received manually. This interim arrangement will allow the commission to start addressing grievances before the online Complaint Management Portal is fully operational.
The meeting reviewed progress on earlier decisions and examined follow-up actions. Members agreed that manual receipt of complaints is necessary to ensure the commission can begin addressing issues promptly.
The commission also decided to coordinate with relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Human Rights, to draft rules and develop mechanisms for periodic performance assessment and key performance indicators. This collaboration aims to enhance the effectiveness of the protection mechanisms for media workers.
Participants discussed the definitions of 'journalist' and 'media professional' under the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, 2021, emphasizing the need for clarity. The meeting also addressed issues such as job security, delayed salaries, unpaid wages, and welfare arrangements provided by media organizations.
Safety mechanisms and training facilities available to journalists and media professionals were reviewed. The commission agreed to strengthen coordination and consultation with relevant stakeholders to improve the implementation of the law and protection mechanisms for media workers.
The commission’s five committees are currently working on rules formulation, complaint handling, training and welfare, the commission’s activity plan, and the annual report. These committees will finalize their recommendations before the next meeting.
The launch of this manual complaint system is seen as a significant step towards protecting media workers and addressing their grievances. The commission aims to transition to an online portal once fully developed, ensuring a more efficient and accessible system for journalists and media professionals.
