World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development:

A Pakistani Perspective on UNESCO Report

February 27, 2018

University of the Punjab, Lahore

UNESCO in its 36th general Conference put a report on World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development to addresses the issues and to monitor and report on contemporary developments in press freedom and the safety of journalists. The first World Trends Report, published in 2014, concluded, to map key transformations in freedom of expression and media development globally between 2012 and 2017, a period marked by profound social, political and technological shifts. The issues presented in the report demands continuous discussions, feedback and monitoring. Some of the trends highlighted in the UNESCO report include: media freedom; media pluralism; media independence; and safety of journalists. This conference will bring forth Pakistani perspective on UNESCO report through deliberations of media practitioners, academicians, policy makers and other stakeholders.

The proposed themes for deliberations at the conference can be categorized into four main areas. The first theme, focusing on "Media freedom in the digital age," addresses critical components such as the social, political, and economic impacts of freedom of expression, the right to access information, the nexus between media freedom and national security, government media monitoring, and the potential pretexts used to impose restrictions on media. Online surveillance is also explored within this context.

The second theme centers on "Access to media platforms," encompassing digital access, diversity in media debates, strategies for dealing with fake news, and the role of women in media. Additionally, it scrutinizes the influence of media conglomerates, technological advancements, and their impact on media pluralism.

The third theme, "Media independence," investigates aspects like media polarization, the factors contributing to such polarization, corporate influence on media, journalism credibility, and the evolving role of digital media. The autonomy of journalists in the news-making process is also explored within this theme.

The fourth and final theme, "Status of journalist safety," dives into the challenges faced by journalists, including the inherent dangers associated with journalism. Discussions cover why journalism is considered a dangerous profession, the prevailing norm of impunity for crimes against journalists, the increasing concern for digital safety, the unique challenges faced by women journalists, and the roles of media organizations, government, and civil society in ensuring journalist safety. This comprehensive approach aims to foster in-depth discussions on the evolving dynamics and challenges within the media landscape.

CONFERENCE ORGANIZERS

• Association of Media & Communication Academic Professionals (AMCAP)
• UNESCO
• Journalism and Media International Center (JMIC), Norway & Oslomet University Norway
• ICS University of the Punjab.

Click here for the Proceedings Book 2018