Established in 1989 as a section 42 not-for-profit company under the Companies Ordinance 1984, the Pak Media Foundation was founded with the core objectives of promoting the welfare, education, and well-being of journalists and all segments of the media community. From its inception, the Foundation has steadfastly pursued these important goals. Despite facing significant financial hurdles and considerable hardships, the Foundation achieved a major milestone with the successful completion and handover of 44 housing flats to journalists – a tangible demonstration of our early dedication to supporting their resilience and welfare. Building upon this commitment, the Pak Media Foundation has broadened its scope to champion a vibrant and resilient media and the rule of law landscape in Pakistan through a network of partners and key initiatives. Pak Media Foundation has also been certified by the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy.

Over the years, the Pak Media Foundation has evolved to embrace a broader vision, recognizing the intrinsic link between a thriving media landscape and the fundamental principles of a just and equitable society. We firmly believe that a vibrant and independent media is crucial for upholding the rule of law, fostering good governance, protecting human rights, strengthening democracy in Pakistan, and advancing empowerment of women and other marginalized groups across all spheres. Furthermore, we are increasingly committed to promoting a trauma-informed approach to journalism, ensuring ethical and responsible reporting that minimizes harm and supports the well-being of both journalists and the communities they serve.

Through strategic partnerships and the diverse expertise of our network, comprising journalists, academics, legal experts, human rights advocates, women’s rights advocates, and community leaders, we strive to cultivate a media landscape that is diverse, inclusive, accountable, gender-sensitive and trauma-informed.

Our current initiatives include provision of direct support to journalists and other actors, through financial assistance as well as the use of the foundation’s in-house facilities, capacity-building of journalists and writers through various convenings and trainings to enhance their skills and professionalism, promoting dialogues and avenues for collaboration amongst journalists and other stakeholders through forums, celebrating the exemplary work of media professionals through recognition awards, supporting investigative journalism as well as publication and dissemination of literary work.

We are guided by the belief that a free, responsible, trauma-informed, and gender-equal press is essential for a healthy democracy, the pursuit of justice, and positive societal transformation. We are committed to working towards a future where these values thrive for the benefit of all in Pakistan.

Mission Statement:

To empower a vibrant, independent, and ethical media landscape in Pakistan that champions the welfare of the media community, upholds the rule of law and good governance, protects human rights, advances women’s empowerment, and promotes trauma-informed journalism, thereby contributing to a just, equitable, and democratic society for all.

Vision Statement:

To be a leading force in Pakistan, cultivating a media ecosystem where a free, responsible, and inclusive press thrives as a cornerstone of democracy and justice, an advocate for human rights and women’s empowerment, and a catalyst for positive societal change through ethical and trauma-informed practices, ultimately contributing to a flourishing and equitable nation for all its citizens.