World Press Freedom Day and Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Muzaffarabad: As the world celebrates World Press Freedom Day on May 3, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Pakistan-administrred Jammu and Kashmir) solemnly remembers its journalists who have made sacrifices in pursuit of truth.

Despite facing punitive measures from government institutions, these brave journalists have illuminated the issues facing the people.

In contrast to the global shift towards electronic media, Azad Jammu and Kashmir grapples with a dearth of media and electronic media facilities.

While a few Urdu-language electronic media outlets exist, there is a conspicuous absence of national or international news portals, websites, or satellite TV channels in Azad Kashmir. Consequently, the region’s inhabitants are deprived of a unified media platform.

Journalism in Azad Kashmir remains primarily reliant on print media, yet it lags significantly behind current global standards.

Given its status as a disputed territory, with tensions between India and Pakistan, the need for international media presence and resources in this region is paramount.

International media companies and resources could bridge this gap, ensuring that the voices and stories of Azad Jammu and Kashmir are heard on a global scale.