"The research included a survey of 546 journalists along with in-depth interviews of 10 senior reporters and editors in national and international newsrooms based in Pakistan. The survey, aimed at understanding the perception of their ability to identify and counter misinformation, found that almost ... 90% of respondents believe that misinformation has had an impact on public trust in the media. It also concluded that nine out of ten respondents claimed that they have become more vigilant about fact-checking due to accusations about the media's role in spreading misinformation. Editors interviewed for the study felt that accusations of “fake news” and attacks on journalists on social media had not only made them more vigilant but also fearful of putting out information. In terms of their understanding, the survey found that 89% of respondents claimed there were discussions in their newsrooms about misinformation. While on the face of it this appears encouraging, the survey indicated that none of the 584 respondents were able to differentiate between misinformation, mal-information, and disinformation casting a shadow over their true understanding of integral concepts." (Executive summary, page 3) more

"How is freedom of expression in Pakistan’s digital spaces governed? What protections do journalists and bloggers enjoy? What is censored and how conducive is the environment for political and religious expression online? This research looks at these questions within the premise of an internationa ... l framework on freedom of expression drafted by Frank La Rue, former United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression. This report on the State of Internet Freedoms in Pakistan forms part of a baseline research conducted by the project APC-IMPACT (India, Malaysia, Pakistan Advocacy for Change through Technology), which aims to address restrictions on the internet by promoting and protecting internet rights." (Back cover) more