Karachi's security situation, marked by sectarian violence and terrorism, has impacted its business environment, leading to capital flight and reduced investment. The recent attack on Ismailis in Safoora Goth and the murder of activist Sabeen Mahmud highlight the ongoing challenges. Despite the violence, communities like the Ismailis and Bohras continue to contribute to the economy through business and philanthropy. Opinions among business leaders and economists vary on the long-term effects of such incidents on commercial interests. While some see a trend of capital and families moving to safer environments like Dubai, others believe the resilience of these communities will prevail. The government's Karachi operation and National Action Plan aim to improve the situation, with some success in reducing daily killings. However, the business community remains skeptical, calling for more decisive action and depoliticization of the police.

National elections in Pakistan mark the first transfer between two elected civilian governments, with a significant turnout of young voters, including the author who voted for the first time. The elections are characterized by a sense of empowerment among voters, despite being marred by violence, including a bombing in Karachi attributed to the Taliban. The unofficial results are expected to start coming in after the polls close at 5 p.m.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan defends amendments to the country's cybercrime laws, claiming they are necessary to combat fake news, child pornography, and online harassment. The amendments, which have been criticized as draconian and undemocratic, deny bail to those accused of defamation and extend jail time. Critics argue the law violates constitutional protections and is designed to silence dissent. The law has sparked widespread opposition from political parties, journalist unions, and rights activists, who are challenging it in courts and through protests. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between the government and the media in Pakistan.

Pakistan has amended the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act 2016 through a presidential ordinance to combat fake news on social media. However, media organizations and rights activists argue that the law could be used to target opposition critics and suppress freedom of speech.

Pakistani authorities have significantly increased content removal requests to Twitter, reflecting heightened government scrutiny of online speech. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has blocked several apps, including TikTok, for failing to comply with local content regulations. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government has been criticized for its attempts to control both mainstream and social media, leading to concerns about press freedom. The proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority faced unanimous opposition, and Pakistan's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index has declined. Journalists face harassment and job losses, while digital rights activists express concerns over new regulations.

Pakistan is attempting to implement a new law to centralize government oversight of the media, raising fears of worsening press freedom. The country's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index has declined since Prime Minister Imran Khan took office, dropping from 139 in 2018 to 145 in 2021.

Pakistan is attempting to implement a new law to centralize government oversight of the media, raising concerns about the further decline of press freedom in the country. Since Prime Minister Imran Khan took office, Pakistan's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index has dropped from 139 in 2018 to 145 in 2021, according to Reporters Without Borders.

India led the world in internet shutdowns in 2019 with 121 incidents, more than half of the global total of 213. The shutdowns were longer and more targeted, often affecting social media access. Following India, Venezuela, Yemen, Iraq, Algeria, and Ethiopia had the most shutdowns. The Indian government's actions in Kashmir, including a 175-day internet blackout, were particularly notable and criticized by the Supreme Court of India. The report by Access Now highlights the human rights violations associated with these shutdowns.

India led the world in internet shutdowns in 2019 with 121 incidents, more than half of the global total of 213. The shutdowns were longer and more targeted, often affecting social media access. Following India, Venezuela, Yemen, Iraq, Algeria, and Ethiopia had the most shutdowns. Myanmar imposed the longest shutdown in Rakhine and Chin states. The Indian government justified shutdowns as measures for public safety and national security, but they were criticized for hiding human rights violations, especially in Kashmir, which experienced the second-longest global shutdown of 175 days. The Supreme Court of India deemed indefinite shutdowns unconstitutional but provided no immediate relief.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, expressed confidence that Pakistan's economic growth rate would surpass the 2.4% target, potentially reaching over 3.5% due to increased development spending and a significant textile sector incentive package. He emphasized the importance of political stability and trade with neighboring countries for sustainable growth. The government aims to fully utilize the Rs950 billion Public Sector Development Programme and the Rs1 trillion provincial development programme. Shaikh also addressed inflation concerns and the impact of the IMF financial reform package.

Facebook restricted access to 5,690 items in Pakistan between January and June 2019, the highest in the world, followed by Mexico. The restrictions were primarily due to local laws prohibiting blasphemy, anti-judiciary content, defamation, and condemnation of the country's independence. Government demands for user data in Pakistan also rose by 5.3% during the same period. Globally, government requests for Facebook user data increased by 16%, with the US leading the requests, followed by India, the UK, Germany, and France.

Sindh Information Minister Saeed Ghani announced that the Sindh Assembly is set to pass a historic law for journalists' safety, marking a significant step in protecting press freedom in Pakistan. The law, supported by the Freedom Network and the Council of Newspapers Editors (CPNE), aims to appoint a special prosecutor and establish a journalists' protection council. The announcement was made at the National Conference to End Impunity, where speakers highlighted the dire state of press freedom in Pakistan, ranked 142nd on the World Press Freedom index. Senior journalist Arif Nizami and others emphasized the need for unity among journalists to combat the prevailing environment of fear and self-censorship. The session also presented findings from the Pakistan Impunity Scorecard 2019, revealing that no killers of the 33 journalists murdered since 2013 have been punished.

In the first half of 2019, the number of Twitter accounts reported by the Government of Pakistan decreased by 40% compared to the previous year, with 1,798 profiles reported. Despite the highest number of content removal requests sent by the government, Twitter did not comply with any. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority reports content for hate speech, impersonation, or blasphemy. Twitter's transparency report also highlighted that its technology tools removed half of the abusive content proactively, and there was a significant increase in accounts locked or suspended for rule violations. The report's release followed Twitter's announcement to ban political advertising.

Pakistan ranks among the worst countries for unsolved journalists' murders, with 16 cases of impunity over the past decade. The Committee to Protect Journalists' 2019 Global Impunity Index highlights unchecked corruption, ineffective institutions, and lack of political will as key factors. Senior journalist Hamid Mir and CPJ's Steven Butler emphasize the involvement of powerful individuals and lack of commitment from investigative authorities. The article also discusses the broader context of global impunity for journalist murders, with Somalia, Syria, and Iraq among the worst offenders.

Pakistan ranks among the worst countries for unsolved journalist murders, with 16 cases of impunity over the past decade. The Committee to Protect Journalists' 2019 Global Impunity Index highlights unchecked corruption, ineffective institutions, and lack of political will as key factors. Senior journalist Hamid Mir and CPJ's Steven Butler emphasize the involvement of powerful individuals and lack of commitment from investigative authorities. The article also discusses the broader context of press freedom and the challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan and other countries with high rates of unsolved journalist murders.

Pakistan ranks among the worst countries for unsolved journalists' murders, with 16 cases of impunity over the past decade. The Committee to Protect Journalists' 2019 Global Impunity Index highlights unchecked corruption, ineffective institutions, and lack of political will as key factors. Prime Minister Imran Khan's claims of a free press are contrasted with the reality of journalists facing severe consequences for not aligning with the state narrative. The article also discusses the broader global context, with Somalia, Syria, and Iraq among the worst offenders. Recommendations for improving journalist safety and accountability are provided, but skepticism remains about their implementation.

A Supreme Court bench dissolved after judges recused themselves from a case challenging the appointment of two Election Commission of Pakistan members. The matter was referred to the chief justice for a new bench. The appointments of Khalid Mehmood Siddiqui and Munir Ahmed Kakar were contested for not following constitutional procedures. The government defended the appointments, while opposition criticized them as unilateral and unconstitutional.

Military clampdown in Indian Occupied Kashmir has led to a prolonged internet shutdown since August 5, raising concerns from the United Nations and other international bodies. Alp Toker of NetBlocks explains the implementation and impact of such shutdowns, highlighting the demographic targeting by the Indian state and the exclusion of civic participation. The article discusses the legal implications, alternatives for affected citizens, and recent precedents of long-lasting internet shutdowns in other regions.

The article discusses the ongoing internet shutdown in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) following the revocation of the region's autonomy on August 5. It features an interview with Alp Toker, Executive Director of NetBlocks, who explains the technical and political aspects of internet shutdowns. The shutdown in Kashmir is described as near-total, with selective connectivity possibly reserved for security forces. The article highlights the human rights implications and the political motives behind the shutdown, referencing international laws and recent precedents of prolonged internet disruptions in other regions.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has requested a meeting with Twitter to discuss the suspension of Pakistani accounts tweeting in support of Kashmir. Since August 5, when India revoked Kashmir's semi-autonomous status, 333 accounts were suspended, with only 67 restored. PTA accuses Twitter of bias and seeks a written explanation. Twitter denies partiality, asserting its policies are enforced equally. PTA's Director PR, Khurram Ali Mehran, confirmed ongoing communication with Twitter's regional office and emphasized the authority's mandate under the Prevention of Electronic Crime Act 2016.

Around 20% of the 200 Pakistani social media accounts suspended for pro-Kashmir posts have been restored after the National IT Board, on behalf of the Pakistan government, approached Twitter. Islamabad has requested a justification for the suspensions, which were made at India's behest. The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority and the Foreign Office have also raised concerns, citing violations of Twitter's policy and community standards. Twitter maintains that it enforces its policies impartially, while advocacy group Bolo Bhi highlights the complexities of international conflicts in content moderation.

The National IT Board of Pakistan, on behalf of the government, approached Twitter to restore approximately 40 of the 200 Pakistani accounts suspended for pro-Kashmir posts after India revoked Kashmir's special status on August 5. Despite no official response from Twitter, Pakistan has reached out again for justification. Accounts suspended included those of journalists and news channels reporting on rights violations in Kashmir. Twitter denies bias and upholds its policies against terrorism and abuse. Digital rights group Bolo Bhi emphasizes the need for nuanced policies by tech companies in international conflicts.

The article explains the formula determining petroleum product prices in Pakistan, highlighting the significant revenue generated for the government. It details the historical context of oil pricing, the role of various organizations, and the specific mechanisms used in Pakistan, including the import parity pricing formula. The piece also discusses the taxes and levies added to the base price of petroleum products, emphasizing the limited flexibility the government has in adjusting these prices due to international market influences.

A recorded interview with former Pakistani president Asif Ali Zardari was taken off air shortly after its broadcast began on Geo News, sparking accusations of censorship. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) initially denied involvement, but a government official later cited PEMRA rules as the reason for the removal. The incident has drawn criticism from journalists and organizations advocating for press freedom, highlighting ongoing issues of media control and censorship in Pakistan. The article discusses the broader context of media freedom in the country, including past instances of censorship and the challenges faced by journalists.

A recorded interview with former Pakistani president Asif Ali Zardari was taken off air shortly after its broadcast began on Geo News, sparking accusations of censorship. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) initially denied involvement, but a government official later claimed the interview was pulled under PEMRA rules. The incident has drawn criticism from journalists and organizations advocating for press freedom, highlighting ongoing issues of media control and censorship in Pakistan. The country ranks low on the World Press Freedom Index, with journalists facing threats, violence, and persecution.

Pakistan continues to rely heavily on coal power despite the economic and environmental drawbacks, driven by Chinese investments under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The government faces criticism for not shifting towards renewable energy, which is seen as the future by experts. Financial difficulties and environmental concerns plague coal projects, while the potential for renewable energy remains underutilized. The article highlights the struggles of ordinary citizens with unreliable electricity and the high cost of solar power, advocating for decentralized renewable energy solutions.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in Pakistan announced the 8th Interim Wage Award for newspaper employees, offering an increase in salary between Rs5,000 and Rs8,500. Despite the increment being considered insufficient by some, it reflects the government's commitment to resolving journalists' issues. The announcement was made by PM's Special Assistant on Information Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, and the wage award was formulated with input from the Implementation Tribunal for Newspapers Employees. The media industry has faced a financial crisis with layoffs and non-payment of dues, but the government is taking steps to address these issues, including resuming grants and increasing tribunals for complaint redressal. Critics argue that the government's measures are part of a strategy to control the media.

The article explores the origins and evolution of the patwari system in the Indian subcontinent, highlighting its establishment by the Mughal Empire and subsequent refinement by the British administration. It discusses the current state of the patwari system in Pakistan, particularly in Punjab and Sindh, where digitalization efforts have been made to modernize land records. Despite these efforts, issues of corruption and inefficiency persist. Agriculturalist Mian Asif Sharif provides insights into the system's historical context and current challenges, emphasizing the need for further reforms to enhance transparency and accessibility.

Thousands of journalists in Pakistan face financial distress due to undeclared censorship, intimidation, and economic insecurity. The PTI government has exacerbated the situation by curbing media advertisements and withholding payments, leading to mass layoffs and pay cuts. Journalist unions have staged protests, resulting in an interim relief announcement, but implementation remains limited. The report highlights the ongoing challenges and lack of government action to address journalists' plight.

Thousands of journalists in Pakistan face financial distress due to undeclared censorship, intimidation, and economic insecurity. The PTI government has exacerbated the situation by curbing media advertisements, leading to layoffs and pay cuts. Journalist unions have staged protests, resulting in an interim wage relief. However, the implementation of wage board salaries remains inconsistent, highlighting ongoing challenges for media workers.

The National Finance Commission's recent meeting in Lahore ended without consensus. Economist Asim Bashir Khan discusses the demands and grievances of smaller provinces, focusing on Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's request for additional funds for the merger of erstwhile Fata, Sindh's demand for a larger share from the divisible pool, and Balochistan's call for increased funds due to shifting terrorism impacts. Punjab's resource needs and the broader implications for Pakistan's economy are also examined. The article suggests that richer provinces should rely more on their own resources while the federal government should increase its tax revenues to address historical injustices and financial constraints.

Ali Zafar was honored with the 'Music icon of the generation' award at the Shaan-e-Pakistan Achievement in Music Awards held in Lahore. Celebrated for his versatility as a singer, composer, lyricist, and performer, Zafar's career includes three hit albums, Bollywood successes, cricket anthems, and contributions to Coke Studio. The two-day event highlighted his significant impact on the music industry.

Pakistan has lodged a formal complaint at the United Nations accusing India of 'eco-terrorism' following air strikes that damaged trees in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The complaint, presented by Malik Amin Aslam at the UN Environment Assembly, calls for global condemnation and the revocation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Champion of the Earth' award. Pakistan highlights its own environmental initiatives, including the Billion Tree Tsunami and other green projects, as part of its commitment to sustainable development.

Forests, vital for biodiversity and human livelihood, are under severe threat due to deforestation, with significant losses recorded in recent years. The 15th International Media Forum on the Protection of Nature in San Miniato, Italy, highlighted the urgent need for coordinated global action to protect forests. Greenaccord, a cultural association of environmental journalism, emphasized the gap between policy, research, and practice, calling for increased media coverage and public awareness. Nigerian journalist Ugochi Oluigbo was awarded for her contributions to environmental journalism, underscoring the critical role of media in addressing ecological issues.

Despite the killings of 26 journalists in Pakistan over the past five years, the conviction rate remains abysmally low, with only one conviction that was later overturned. The Freedom Network report highlights the dire situation for journalists, particularly in conflict areas like Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where police investigations are often incomplete. The article underscores the lack of governmental action and judicial accountability, with calls for a special prosecutor to fast-track cases of murdered journalists. The overall sentiment is critical of the state's failure to ensure justice and safety for journalists.

Facebook is intensifying its efforts to combat misinformation ahead of Pakistan's July 25 elections by partnering with AFP for third-party fact-checking. The social media giant is using a combination of technology and human review to identify and reduce the distribution of false news. Facebook has also collaborated with the Election Commission of Pakistan to promote civic engagement and transparency. The platform has removed nearly six million fake accounts globally in the first quarter of 2018, including accounts linked to the Milli Muslim League. The Election Commission of Pakistan is working with Facebook to increase voter awareness, although there are no specific guidelines for identifying and removing fake pages of political parties.

Advocacy groups, including Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists, have raised concerns about increasing attacks on the press in Pakistan ahead of the July 25 general elections. Documented incidents include the abduction of columnist Gul Bukhari, an attack on journalist Asad Kharal, and a break-in at Marvi Sirmed's home. The ISPR has also accused journalists of anti-state activities. These groups have urged the caretaker Prime Minister Nasirul Mulk to ensure a free and safe environment for journalists to report on the elections, warning that the credibility of the election outcome could be compromised otherwise.

The article by W. Tariq discusses the decline in trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, attributing it to various factors such as political tensions, border closures, and changes in trade policies. The Afghanistan Transit and Trade Agreement (ATTA) and its successor, the Afghanistan and Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA), were established to facilitate trade, but have faced challenges. The withdrawal of NATO troops and reduced international funding have decreased demand for Pakistani exports. Both countries have accused each other of harboring militants, further straining relations. Pakistan's major exports to Afghanistan include mineral products, foodstuffs, and machinery, but trade has declined in almost all sectors except chemicals, dairy products, foodstuffs, and machines. Alternative trade routes and partners are being sought by both countries, with Afghanistan expanding trade with Iran and India, and Pakistan focusing on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Efforts are being made to improve the situation, including upgrading border infrastructure with the help of the Asian Development Bank and revising regulatory duties on certain items.

The article discusses six instances in 2017 where Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) demonstrated political behavior similar to other mainstream parties, contradicting its own narrative of change. PTI's chairman, Imran Khan, is criticized for inconsistent stances on issues such as disqualification of politicians, nepotism, constitutional amendments, and mega projects like the Peshawar BRT. The article also touches on PTI's approach to foreign loans and internal party dynamics, suggesting that PTI's actions are driven by a quest for power rather than a commitment to change.

Two Pakistani journalists are among 262 worldwide imprisoned for their work, according to a CPJ report. Turkey, China, and Egypt account for over half of these cases. The report highlights the challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan, including arrests under vague anti-terror laws and the impact of the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act. The article underscores the need for Pakistan to uphold press freedom commitments.

Veteran TV actor Farooq Zamir has passed away following a prolonged illness. He was admitted to CMH, Lahore due to breathing problems but could not recover. Zamir, known for his serious acting and unique delivery, started his career with Pakistan Television in the 90s and was popular among various viewers. His notable drama serials include 'Rani', 'Gadaya', and 'Suraagh Zindagi'. He will be laid to rest in Lahore on Friday.

FIFA has decided to expand the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams starting in 2026, with a new format featuring 16 groups of three teams. FIFA President Gianni Infantino supports the move, emphasizing global inclusivity, while critics argue it may lower the tournament's quality and encourage negative play. The decision has faced opposition from European clubs and organizations like the ECA and New FIFA Now, which claim the expansion is politically driven and could harm the competition's appeal. The host for the 2026 tournament will be decided in 2020, with North America seen as a strong contender.

Hamid Mir, a prominent Pakistani journalist, reflects on how his life changed after supporting Malala Yousufzai and facing threats from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Despite being critically injured in a 2014 attack, Mir continued his work in journalism, receiving the Most Resilient Journalist Award 2016. He emphasizes the ongoing threats to journalists in Pakistan from non-state actors and advocates for better protection and training for journalists. Mir also plans to establish a media university to enhance journalism education in neglected regions like Balochistan.

Bahrain's foreign ministry dismissed the findings of an Amnesty International report that highlighted ongoing torture and ill-treatment in the Gulf kingdom. The ministry criticized the report as inaccurate and selective, particularly regarding the independence of new oversight bodies like the Ministry of Interior's ombudsman. The ombudsman's office, while questioning the report's accuracy, pledged to study its content carefully.

The Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee has condemned the violence in occupied Kashmir and called on the United Nations to assist in granting Kashmiris their right to self-determination. The committee emphasized that the Kashmiri struggle for freedom, which has intensified following the killing of separatist leader Burhan Wani by Indian forces, is not terrorism but a fundamental right.

Antonio Conte acknowledges the challenges facing Chelsea, citing recent defeats to Liverpool and Arsenal as indicators of deeper issues within the team. Despite the setbacks, Conte emphasizes the need for hard work and gradual improvement rather than expecting immediate results. He also discusses his interactions with owner Roman Abramovich and the potential for squad changes in the January transfer window. The article highlights the team's current struggles and the coach's perspective on addressing them.

Suspected Kurdish militants fired rockets at Diyarbakir airport in southeastern Turkey, causing no casualties or flight disruptions. The attack targeted a police checkpoint outside the VIP lounge, prompting passengers and staff to seek shelter. The incident occurred amid Turkey's military operations in Syria against both Islamic State and Kurdish militia fighters, aiming to prevent Kurdish territorial gains. Diyarbakir, a city with a significant Kurdish population, has been a focal point of the Kurdish insurgency led by the PKK, which is considered a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU.

Gareth Bale emphasizes that the Euro 2016 semi-final between Wales and Portugal is about the teams, not individual stars like himself and Cristiano Ronaldo. Bale has scored three goals in the tournament, while Ronaldo has scored two. Bale focuses on team performance and downplays Ronaldo's recent controversial actions. The match will determine who faces Germany or France in the final.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) considered adopting electronic voting machines (EVMs) to address electoral irregularities and prevent rigging allegations. However, EU observers advised against this, suggesting that the technology would not ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. They recommended strengthening the ECP's administrative capacity instead. The article references Ashwan Sanghi’s book 'The Chanakya’s Chant' to illustrate potential manipulation of EVMs, highlighting that high-tech solutions do not necessarily guarantee electoral integrity.

The article examines the ongoing political struggle between the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) over governance and control in Karachi. Despite MQM's victory in the 2015 local government elections, the Sindh Local Government Act 2013 limits their administrative and financial powers, centralizing authority with the provincial government. Experts and political leaders highlight the need for financial devolution and a collaborative mechanism to address urban issues effectively. The article underscores the importance of reaching a common ground between the two main political parties to ensure better governance and service delivery in Karachi.

Azaz Syed's book, 'The Secrets of Pakistan’s War on Al-Qaeda,' reveals the identity of the Pakistani intelligence officer who allegedly provided the CIA with information leading to Osama bin Laden's capture. The book includes interviews with key figures and delves into the network of Bin Laden and his associates in Pakistan, his knowledge of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and his plans for establishing a state in parts of Pakistan. It also discusses the rise of General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, the tension between ISI and CIA, and the collaboration between Pakistan's security establishment and the Americans. Despite minor factual errors, the book offers valuable insights into one of the most significant operations in recent history.

Birds and animals at Karachi's Empress Market suffer from poor conditions, including congested cages and lack of ventilation, leading to high mortality rates. Vendors report significant financial losses due to animal deaths, exacerbated by extreme weather conditions. Animal welfare organizations criticize the pet trade for its inherent cruelty and call for better regulations and enforcement. The Sindh Wildlife Department conducts raids to combat illegal wildlife trade but faces challenges in completely eradicating it. Pakistan has laws to protect animals, but enforcement remains inconsistent.