Daily Times

Sir: Without doubt, journalism seems to be passing through a very tough phase of its history, particularly in Pakistan, which is considered as the most dangerous place for journalists. From local to international, mainstream media outlets have been witnessing quandaries in many shapes from different quarters.

The practice of ethical journalism is the key factor in real professionalism. Unfortunately, the code of ethics in practical work is less observed in Pakistan, most specifically in electronic media, although the Pakistan Electronic Media Regularity Authority (PEMRA), Press Council of Pakistan (PCP), Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and other such bodies have issued several codes of ethics.

On the other hand, journalists are compelled to bind themselves immensely owing to editorial policies, media ownership pressures, job insecurity, etc. Under these circumstances, journalistic performances are built on shaky ground, which is unhealthy for the media.

With the objective of following and having a good sense of knowledge about the code of ethics in today’s journalism, the involvement of academic scholars or experts like PhD degree holders of mass communications or ethical journalism in media organisations is the need of the hour. In fact what is worth mentioning is that there ought to be a separate department of media scholars in media outlets so that they can look into ethical and legal practices of journalists.

Secondly, the gap between the media and academia should be bridged. A strong coordinated inter-relationship is required. Talented and well-skilled students with degrees in mass communications or journalism should be given the first priority when it comes to recruitment so that proper professionalism is enhanced. This step is yet to be taken by both academia and the media.

To sum up, the remarks of Caster are the best of sayings that while morality protects a way of life by tabooing immoral action even before it takes place, laws only provide recourse after the deed has been done.

NOOR AHMED BALOCH

Islamabad