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Pakistan has introduced sweeping new restrictions on foreign media, requiring journalists working for international news organizations to obtain prior government approval before reporting from most parts of the country, drawing criticism from press freedom and human rights groups.
Under the newly issued Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026, foreign journalists can report freely only in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi.
Any reporting assignment outside these three cities—including news stories, documentaries, videos or social media content—will require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s External Publicity (EP) Wing.
The new rules also require foreign media organizations, freelancers, fixers, translators, production companies and Pakistani journalists working for international outlets to register with the EP Wing.
Authorities will have broad powers to approve or reject accreditation applications and revoke press credentials on grounds related to national security, sovereignty or public order.
Journalists’ bodies and press freedom advocates have condemned the measures, warning they could significantly restrict independent reporting and delay coverage of breaking news.
Critics argue the rules expand government oversight of foreign media operations and further shrink press freedom in Pakistan.
The restrictions come amid heightened international scrutiny over Pakistan’s handling of protests and unrest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where rights groups have also raised concerns over media restrictions, internet shutdowns and the treatment of journalists.
