Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed that Pakistan remains firmly committed to freedom of the press, describing it as both a constitutional guarantee and a core democratic necessity. In his message on World Press Freedom Day, he extended greetings to journalists and media professionals worldwide while highlighting the importance of truth in building peaceful societies.
He emphasized that peace cannot be achieved without truth, and truth depends on journalists who show courage, integrity, and responsibility in verifying facts. However, he warned that modern media faces serious challenges, including misinformation, disinformation, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in shaping public narratives.
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Moreover, Zardari pointed out that global digital platforms and social media systems can sometimes amplify harmful content, including false narratives and divisive ideologies. He noted that technology-driven algorithms and deepfake tools have increased risks for democratic discourse and public trust in information systems.
At the same time, he stressed that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees press freedom under Article 19, while Article 19-A strengthens the public’s right to access information. He added that a strong, independent media is essential for accountability, transparency, and maintaining a healthy democratic system.
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Furthermore, he reminded that freedom comes with responsibility, where accuracy must be prioritized over speed and balance must not be replaced by bias. He also urged media organizations to protect public trust and ensure ethical reporting standards in all forms of journalism.
In addition, he highlighted the role of media during national challenges, stating that journalists countered misinformation with facts during difficult situations and helped maintain national unity. He also called for stronger legal protections for journalists and encouraged citizens to support credible reporting while rejecting false information.