Pakistan’s Digital Landscape Under Threat: Proposed Amendments to PECA Raise Alarm Bells for Freedom of Expression
Islamabad – A chilling effect is anticipated across Pakistan’s digital sphere as the National Assembly has passed an amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), often criticized for its draconian nature. The amendment, currently awaiting Senate approval, has sparked widespread concern among human rights organizations, journalists, and civil society, who fear it will further stifle online expression and consolidate government control over the internet. The amendment introduces a vaguely defined offense of spreading "false and fake information," punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine. Critics argue this ambiguous wording, coupled with PECA’s history of being weaponized against dissenters, will likely deter legitimate criticism and public discourse. The absence of public consultation during the amendment’s drafting has only amplified anxieties.
The proposed changes grant sweeping powers to a newly established Social Media Regulation and Protection Authority, including the ability to block and remove content based on nebulous criteria. This provision has raised red flags regarding its potential for abuse and its incompatibility with international human rights standards on freedom of expression and proportionality. Observers see these amendments as part of a broader pattern in Pakistan, marked by increasing digital surveillance and legislation that neglects essential human rights safeguards. The controversial Digital Nation Pakistan Bill, also criticized for its lack of protections, further fuels these concerns. Amnesty International has called for the immediate withdrawal of the amendment bill and urged the government to initiate a genuine dialogue with civil society to align PECA with international human rights law.
The existing PECA, enacted in 2016, has already been used to target journalists, human rights defenders, and political opponents, effectively muzzling critical voices. The law’s overbroad provisions have facilitated the stifling of dissent and the restriction of online freedoms. This new amendment threatens to exacerbate the situation, further shrinking the already limited space for online expression in the country. The current political climate, coupled with frequent blanket bans on social media platforms, including a prolonged block on X (formerly Twitter) since February 2024, underscores the precarious state of online freedom in Pakistan.
The amendment’s swift passage through the National Assembly occurred on January 23, 2025, bypassing any meaningful public debate or consultation. Following immediate backlash from the opposition, media, and civil society, the Senate referred the bill to the Standing Committee the following day. This referral offers a narrow window of opportunity for critical review and potential revisions to address the serious concerns raised. However, given the government’s track record, there is apprehension about genuine engagement in a consultative process.
The international community is also watching these developments closely. Human rights organizations have consistently highlighted the repressive nature of PECA and its potential to violate fundamental freedoms. The lack of transparency and due process in the amendment’s introduction further raises questions about the government’s commitment to upholding human rights principles. The international pressure on Pakistan to respect and protect online freedoms is likely to intensify if the amendment proceeds without significant revisions.
The proposed changes to PECA represent a significant threat to freedom of expression and access to information in Pakistan. The vague wording of the "false and fake information" offense, coupled with the expanded powers granted to regulatory authorities, creates a chilling effect on online discourse and raises the specter of increased censorship. The absence of meaningful consultation with civil society throughout the process underscores the government’s disregard for democratic principles and human rights safeguards. The fate of the amendment now rests with the Senate, which must carefully consider the profound implications of these changes for the future of online freedom in Pakistan. The international community will be watching closely to see whether Pakistan prioritizes the protection of fundamental rights or continues down a path of increasing digital authoritarianism.