Modernising Journalists’ Trade Unions in Pakistan for the Digital Age A Mapping of Challenges, Needs, and Solutions 5. Assessment of Provincial and Federal Labour Laws to Protect the Labour Rights of Journalists The constitutional framework in Pakistan provides some protections for press freedom; however, these are often undermined by legislative measures and state actions. Developments include the Punjab Defamation Bill, 2024, which has faced significant criticism from journalist unions for its potential to stifle free expression. 11 The legal environment remains hostile, with laws that can be used to penalise journalists for defamation or dissent against state authorities. The law currently under challenge by journalists and press organisations in the Lahore High Court replaces the Punjab Defamation Ordinance of 2002. It broadly defines terms such as“defamation” and “broadcasting,” extending their application to include social media platforms. The law allows for the initiation of defamation claims without requiring any proof, which constitutes a clear violation of Article 10-A(the right to a fair trial) of the Constitution. Critics argue that permitting such claims without evidence undermines the fundamental principles of justice and fairness enshrined in the legal framework. 12 Over the past three decades, Pakistan’s media industry has undergone significant transformation, particularly after the privatisation of broadcasting and airwaves post-2002. This shift led to a dramatic increase in the number of media workers, rising from around 3,000 journalists and 25,000 media personnel in 2002 to 18,000 journalists and 250,000 media workers by 2018. The growth was largely fueled by the expansion of electronic media, including television, radio, and cable. However, the rapid evolution of the media landscape, driven by technological advancements, has highlighted a lack of a comprehensive legal framework 11. Pakistan province enacts harsh defamation law, Supreme Court presses legal action against 34 media outlets June 11, 2024 https://cpj.org/2024/06/pakistan-province-enacts-harsh-defamation­law-supreme-court-presses-legal-action-against-34-media-outlets/ 12. Punjab defamation law challenged hours after its approval June 9, 2024 https://www.dawn.com/news/1838774/punjab-defamation-law-challenged-hours-after-its­approval 39