Pakistan has introduced sweeping new restrictions on foreign journalists, prompting sharp criticism from activists and media‑freedom groups who say the move is aimed at silencing coverage of ongoing protests in Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir (PoK). The new regulations, announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MOIB), come just days after Islamabad reportedly blocked Al Jazeera’s broadcast following its reports on anti‑government demonstrations and election‑related unrest in the region.
Under the Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026, all foreign media houses, freelancers, fixers, contributors and associated personnel must undergo mandatory registration and accreditation. The rules apply not only to journalists but also to media owners, sources, sponsors and anyone assisting foreign outlets. Critics say the guidelines dramatically expand state oversight over international reporting.
A key provision requires foreign journalists to obtain a no‑objection certificate (NOC) from the MOIB before travelling anywhere outside Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi. This means reporting trips to sensitive regions — including PoK, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and even tourist destinations like Murree and Abbottabad — now need prior government clearance. The rules also state that any reporting assignment, whether news coverage, documentaries, videos or social‑media content, must receive advance approval.
Activists argue the timing is deliberate: PoK has witnessed weeks of protests, communication blackouts and clashes between civilians and security forces. Restricting foreign media, they say, allows Islamabad to control the narrative and limit international scrutiny. Pakistani officials insist the rules are meant to “streamline procedures” and “ensure security”.