The Current Situation
Chinese authorities detected a new coronavirus disease in December 2019. Today the epidemic has spread rapidly across the world, affecting over 200 countries and claiming more than 44,201 lives. Despite the global lock-downs imposed to contain the spread of COVID19, journalists are battling the situation by providing information to the public.
Importance of media
Media plays a crucial role in a democratic society. Media is a voice of a voiceless expressing opinions of all those in our society. Journalists serve and inform their audience by investigating and reporting on news, issues, trends and events. It’s like a bridge between the authorities and people.
Journalists in the frontline of battle against coronavirus
Like the doctors and nurses on the front lines of the global Covid-19 outbreak, journalists are also taking part as front-liners. Journalists who play this role know that their lives are in danger, but they nevertheless stand up to their duties and inform the world of the situation.
Professional challenges to journalists in Pakistan:
The working condition for journalists in Pakistan is one of the deadliest in the world. In the wake of coronavirus outbreak journalists face severe difficulties in fulfilling their duties in Pakistan. The major problem is traveling during lockdown. Security forces stop journalists’ vehicles and ask them to return, despite the fact that they are exempt from the lockdown stipulations. It is the state’s responsibility to facilitate their work instead of creating hindrances.
Reporters effected by coronavirus
Journalists are playing their key role in spreading news regarding the epidemic. Dozens of journalists around the world have fallen prey to the coronavirus. The coronavirus cases have been confirmed in three Pakistani journalists so far. Chairman (APNEC) Ghazanfar Siddiqui has stated that two journalists from Punjab and one from Karachi have been infected with coronavirus. In such a situation, journalists should be entitled to free protective gear and priority testing. It is the responsibility of politicians, rulers, anchors, and social media activists to acknowledge the services of the aforementioned journalists, including reporters, cameramen, and photographers. They must also be given the equal status of front liners.
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