Pakistan’s position on the World Press Freedom Index continues to deteriorate.

In a study released on World Press Freedom Day by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Pakistan has slipped even further down the list of countries in terms of journalist protection.

Pakistan has dropped 12 spots to 157th place out of 180 countries, according to the RSF study. Pakistan was ranked 145 on the list last year.

President of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Kazim Khan, expressed his concern over the deteriorating situation, saying that while one can disagree with editorial policy, no one can impose their opinion on an institution.

President of the Karachi Press Club, Fazil Jamili, stated that freedom of expression will be safeguarded by prioritizing personal interests over anything else.

Every year on May 3, Public Press Freedom Day is commemorated to highlight the essential principles of press freedom and to inform the world about the current situation of journalism.

This day is also commemorated to demonstrate support for and pay respect to journalists who have been killed, injured, or otherwise harmed while performing their duties.