Pakistan mandates No Objection Certificate for foreign media travel outside major cities

Pakistan has implemented new restrictions on foreign media, requiring journalists from international organizations to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before traveling outside Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi for news coverage. These guidelines, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MOIB), establish a comprehensive framework for the registration, accreditation, and movement of foreign media personnel within the country.

Under the new rules, all accredited foreign journalists must secure a mandatory NOC from the External Publicity (EP) Wing of the ministry to produce any news reports, documentaries, films, videos, or social media content in other cities. The exemption applies only to travel within Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. For leisure travel to Abbottabad and Murree, an NOC can be requested and is expected within three working days.

The regulations encompass international print, electronic, and digital media organizations, including web-based platforms and social media outlets. Pakistani journalists working for foreign media while residing abroad must also register through an online portal, routing their applications via the nearest Pakistani diplomatic mission. The MOIB clarified that registration signifies professional recognition but does not confer official status.

The EP Wing reserves the right to approve or reject accreditation applications, with journalists having the option to appeal to the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Registered journalists will receive QR-enabled accreditation cards to facilitate access to official government events and premises. These measures follow heightened scrutiny over media access in Pakistan, particularly after reports of protests and alleged use of force during local elections.