KARACHI, July 26: Objectivity and truthful representation of reality are the hallmarks of a free and dynamic media. These things help develop norms of professional coverage and reporting.

These views were expressed by senior journalist Mazhar Abbas, secretary-general, Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ). He was giving a presentation on ‘Media’s role dealing with the issue of terrorism and extremism’, at the Department of International Relations, University of Karachi, under the Programme on Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution here on Thursday.

He pointed out the structural weaknesses that prevented journalists from pursuing their work professionally. He said that the media faced impediments that blocked the true picture from reaching the masses.

He observed that terrorism and extremism were inextricably linked together. Extremism and terrorism were the reflection of socio-economic inequalities which created frustration and feelings of deprivation, which became the root causes of violent and nihilistic tendencies, he added.

Mr Abbas stressed the need for proper safety training which could adequately protect the lives of journalists especially during coverage of events in a violent situation. Besides, he urged journalists to struggle for satisfactory and ethical treatment of various issues.

Terrorism, in his view, in Pakistan dates back to the time when Pakistan played an active role in the Afghan war. Suicide bombings and other acts of violence were remnants of the Afghan war, he added.

Dr Moonis Ahmar said that there was a need for telling the truth to the people in the most effective and unprejudiced way.