Analyzing PECA Amendments: Press Freedom, Democratic Values, and Digital Regulation in Pakistan
Keywords:
Online censorship, media regulation, cyber governance, constitutional rights, investigative journalism, digital freedom, privacy protection, content moderation, legal overreach, democratic accountability.Abstract
This article examines the amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) in Pakistan, highlighting their implications for press freedom, democratic values, and digital regulation. The study investigates the tension between national security imperatives and constitutional guarantees of freedom of speech, exploring how these amendments impact media organizations, journalists, and the broader digital ecosystem. Using a qualitative research design, the article employs a doctrinal analysis of PECA's provisions and their alignment with international human rights standards, particularly Article 19 of the ICCPR and Pakistan's constitutional protections. The findings reveal that the amendments have broadened state authority to regulate online content, often resulting in arbitrary censorship and a chilling effect on investigative journalism. Enhanced penalties for defamation and expanded surveillance powers pose significant risks to press freedom, public discourse, and individual privacy. A comparative analysis with global best practices underscores the need for transparent and balanced digital governance. The study concludes by recommending legislative reforms, judicial oversight, and public consultation to align PECA with democratic values and foster a free and secure digital space in Pakistan. This research contributes to ongoing debates on balancing governance, security, and freedom in the digital age.
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