Vojenské Rozhledy

Czech Military Review

Vojenské rozhledy / Czech Military Review Nr. 1/2025, Vol. XXXIV. (LXVI.): 37-54


Military or Militancy: How to Navigate Media Objectivity in Reporting on National SecurityReviewed

Sidra Agha
SMI University Karachi Pakistan & National University of Public Service Ludovika Hungary

This study aimed to explore the media’s perception of the military and militant activities, focusing on journalists’ professional conduct and their commitment to the national cause. In-depth interviews were conducted with Pakistani journalists reporting from conflict zones. The findings suggest that Pakistan is engaged in a war on terror and that the media plays a key role in glorifying the security forces in their fight against militants who challenge the authority of the state. Journalists expressed the view that the government and military should take realistic measures to combat this threat. While journalists described militants as terrorists, they also noted that their professionalism is often influenced by patriotism and a national duty to serve the country. However, objectivity remained a key element of their reporting. The media, considered the fourth pillar of the state, should have the necessary freedom to report on conflicts. At the same time, self-censorship was considered necessary to prevent content that could lead to radicalization.

Keywords: Journalists; Military; Militancy; National Security; Pakistan.

Published: January 1, 2026  Show citation

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Agha, S. (2025).
Military or Militancy: How to Navigate Media Objectivity in Reporting on National Security. Czech Military Review, 106(1), 37-54
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