On 7th August 2025, the National Institute of Public Policy organized a lecture of Mr. Muhammad Ikram Barkat, Director General (Operations), Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA). The session was designed to give interns a deeper understanding of the laws, regulations, and operational frameworks governing Pakistan’s media industry, while also highlighting the responsibilities of journalists, the challenges of misinformation, and the evolving nature of media in the digital age. Mr. Barkat began by introducing PEMRA’s role as the primary regulatory body for private television channels, FM radio stations, and cable networks in Pakistan. He clarified that PEMRA does not regulate Pakistan Television (PTV), which operates under a separate framework. The Authority’s responsibilities include granting licenses, monitoring broadcast content, enforcing compliance with media laws, and imposing penalties for violations. He explained that PEMRA’s governing body is composed of members from diverse professional and regional backgrounds to ensure balanced and inclusive decision-making. He also gave a brief background about the expansion of private media channels from a state-dominated media landscape. He also explained in detail the right to freedom of speech as framed in the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973 and elaborated upon the concepts of misinformation and disinformation. He also discussed the rise of citizen journalism, its pitfalls and challenges ,and the need of media literacy for the public. Mr. Barkat also discussed the responsibility of journalists and media channels to ensure the accuracy and credibility of news reporting. The session concluded with a lively question-and-answer segment. Participants raised concerns about regulating social media, the thin line between censorship and necessary regulation, and the challenges posed by rapidly evolving technology. DG PEMRA responded by emphasizing that regulation is essential for maintaining credibility, protecting public interest, and ensuring that the media fulfills its role as a responsible and trustworthy pillar of democracy. By the end of the session, participants had a clear understanding of how PEMRA operates, the legal framework that guides media in Pakistan, and the shared responsibility of both regulators and media practitioners in upholding journalistic integrity.
A lecture discussion on ‘Rule of Law’ was conducted by Mr. Zulfiqar Cheema
A lecture discussion on ‘Rule of Law’ was conducted by Mr. Zulfiqar Cheema on Tuesday, 28th July 2026, in NMC 125.In his talk, he deliberated upon the concept and importance of the Rule of Law, emphasizing the mechanisms and institutions that ensure equality of all citizens before the law. He highlighted the significance of a…
