By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY TWA ______

As Pakistan continues to address challenges related to media freedom, labor rights, and public-sector reforms, a high-level delegation of the All Pakistan Newspapers and Electronic Media Employees Confederation (APNEC) met the newly appointed Federal Secretary Information and Broadcasting Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil in Islamabad.
The meeting is being seen as an important development in the ongoing national discussion on the protection of media workers, financial transparency in news organizations, and the government’s policy direction in the information sector.

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APNEC Delegation’s Briefing — Detailed Discussion on Media Workers’ Issues

The APNEC delegation congratulated the Federal Secretary on assuming office and presented a comprehensive briefing on the critical challenges faced by newspaper and electronic media employees across Pakistan.
Key points raised in the meeting included:

Long-pending dues and delayed payments
Expansion and revival of the health insurance scheme
Appointment and activation of members for the Journalists & Media Workers Protection Commission
Improvement of service structure for media employees
Rising trend of private-contract hiring in media houses
Need for wage increases and timely salary disbursement
Restoration of unionization rights for workers

The delegation was led by APNEC Chairman Muhammad Siddiq, accompanied by Kaleem Shameem, Muhammad Shiraz, Sobia Khan and Imran Ashraf.

Federal Secretary Information’s Response — Assurance of Full Support

Federal Secretary Information Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil appreciated APNEC’s efforts and acknowledged the importance of safeguarding media workers’ rights.
He assured the delegation that the Ministry of Information will take positive and practical measures to address the issues raised, adding that the government remains committed to strengthening the information sector and supporting Pakistan’s journalistic community.

Media Labor Rights and International Standards

Pakistan has been engaging with global forums such as the United Nations (UN), International Labour Organization (ILO), UNESCO, and various human-rights bodies on issues related to media freedom, labor protection and workplace safety.
Economic pressures and instability within the country's media industry have placed additional burdens on journalists and media workers, making such meetings vital for aligning national policy with global standards of labor rights and press freedom.

Agreement to Strengthen Coordination

The meeting concluded in a constructive and positive environment, with both sides agreeing to maintain close coordination.
In the coming weeks, progress may be expected on:

Settlement of outstanding dues
Expansion of insurance schemes
Improvement of service structures
Review of contract-based hiring practices
Strengthening of union and worker protection rights