KARACHI: The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) is gravely alarmed at the recent closure of a news channel as it has rendered hundreds of people jobless.

The association also expressed concern over unilateral cuts in salaries and perks of working journalists in other media groups.

“The painful announcements have come at a time when the country is grappling with the crippling coronavirus’ which requires a sustained and courageous coverage by journalists to keep the public informed about the threat the pandemic poses,” the statement said.

Journalists, like doctors, paramedics and law enforcement personnel, are at the forefront in the fight against the pandemic as they help transmit information, which is vital for public safety and decision-making. the association said.

“Journalists are trained to run towards what everyone else is running away from, and the present corona crisis is no different.”

The association further said as tens of millions of people are forced to stay inside their homes, they have a right to be informed through viable and credible mainstream media outlets.

It is the responsibility of the state to protect the people’s right to information and the interests of those working in the media just like “we need to protect our doctors, paramedics and those involved in fighting the coronavirus pandemic”.

According to AEMEND, attempts to financially harm working journalists will compromise the independence of journalism. The government must play its role and ensure no arbitrary actions are taken to harm working journalists.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2020