Modernising Journalists’ Trade Unions in Pakistan for the Digital Age A Mapping of Challenges, Needs, and Solutions 4.1.6. Democratic Issues The unions of journalists in Pakistan face significant democratic issues, notably the lack of adherence to fixed term limits for leadership positions. This results in long-serving leaders who resist change, hindering the adaptation of modern management practices. Additionally, there is a lack of transparency in elections and voter lists, which further complicates the democratic process within these unions. These issues contribute to stagnation and limit the potential for new leadership and innovative ideas to emerge. Sheher Bano says,“Making unions more democratic and ensuring greater inclusivity, particularly through steps like imposing term limits for key leadership positions, can significantly enhance their effectiveness and responsiveness. By implementing term limits and fostering inclusivity by giving leadership opportunities to diverse media fields, ensuring gender balance, and engaging members from some marginalised groups, unions can create a more dynamic and responsive organisation that better serves its members. These steps not only help in adapting to changing environments but also in ensuring that leadership is representative of and accountable to the entire membership.” She adds:“Long-serving leaders can create stagnation in unions by preventing fresh perspectives and ideas. Regular turnover in leadership positions, through term limits and diverse candidate pools, encourages accountability, transparency, and adaptability to changing conditions. A democratic decision­making process involving member inputs through forums and surveys promotes inclusivity. Developing second-tier leadership through continuous training ensures new leaders are prepared for the future. Establishing committees focused on innovation and maintaining open communication between leadership and members further supports a responsive and dynamic union environment. Regularly updating union rules and practices helps the union remain relevant and inclusive to its members’ evolving needs.” Siddique Anzer , the central chairman of APNEC, also weighs in.““As per our constitution, a term shall not exceed two years. But there is no democracy in our unions or media organisations in general. Once someone gets to the main leadership position, they like to stay as long as possible. There are such many examples.[former PFUJ Barna faction] Pervaiz Shoukat lost the elections but he didn’t want to go. Instead of letting the democratic process go on, he made his own PFUJ[‘Workers’ faction]. The same is the case with Dastoor group. The president always wants to stay president. In 21