More basic rights
More basic rights: Pakistan’s low ranking in Freedom House’s Freedom on the Net index is disappointing but not surprising. The country scored only 27 out of 100 and earned the label “not free.” It now sits beside China, Iran, and Russia — all known for strict internet control. In contrast, India scored 51, Sri Lanka 53, and Bangladesh 45. These countries are considered “partly free.”
Falling Freedom
The report comes at a time when Pakistan is reducing democratic freedoms. The government passed the 27th Amendment and enforced repeated internet shutdowns, including a weeklong blackout in Balochistan. The report gave Pakistan 6/25 for access, 13/35 for limits on content, and 8/40 for user rights violations. It says Pakistan’s internet freedom has declined sharply over the past 15 years. During this period, the government often restricted online activity when it felt challenged. Pakistan was first ranked “not free” in 2012, and the situation has barely improved.
Rising Restrictions
Between June 2024 and May 2025, authorities disrupted major communication platforms like WhatsApp and Signal several times. They used new blocking and monitoring tools to do this. In November 2024, the government restricted internet services in Islamabad during mass protests. This year, it also threatened to block VPNs and introduced new registration rules that required users to share personal details. It amended Peca in January. Rights groups say these changes use vague language that can silence criticism.
Growing Fear
The report notes at least five death sentences for alleged online blasphemy during the year. It also says powerful institutions continue to influence elections, media, and policy decisions. These pressures make people feel unsafe expressing themselves both online and offline.
Strict controls create the feeling that the state prefers secrecy and control over public engagement. The 27th Amendment, which critics say weakens key protections, adds to the belief that Pakistan’s democratic space is shrinking. Democracy needs more than elections. It needs a free environment where people can speak, gather, and question authority. When both online and offline spaces shrink, democracy weakens. In today’s world, the internet should act as basic civic infrastructure, not a tool for control.
Reform Needed
Pakistan needs clear laws, proper court oversight of shutdowns, and the removal of vague cyber rules. The country can still reverse this decline, but it is unclear whether leaders have the will to do so.
Published in Dawn, 16th November 2025
