In a recent inquiry into Australian secrecy laws, Mike Burgess, the head of ASIO, raised concerns about foreign intelligence services using journalism as a cover. Burgess warned that foreign operatives may be posing as journalists to gather sensitive information and carry out covert activities. The inquiry, led by the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor, is examining the effectiveness of current laws in protecting whistleblowers and the press.
Burgess emphasized the need for caution when considering any alterations to the law, stressing the importance of protecting critical information and national security. He acknowledged the potential chilling effect that the current laws may have on whistleblowers and journalists, making it more difficult for them to carry out their work and undermining transparency.
Kieran Pender from the Human Rights Law Centre echoed these concerns, highlighting the impact of the current laws on the ability to conduct investigative journalism and hold those in power accountable. Pender emphasized the need for a balanced approach that protects national security while also safeguarding press freedom and the public's right to know.
The Independent National Security Legislation Monitor, Jake Blight, is expected to release a report on the review by May. The report will likely include recommendations for a simpler approach to the law that strikes the right balance between national security and the protection of whistleblowers and journalists.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, legal experts and journalists are condemning the government's decision to authorize the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to record phone calls and messages, labeling it a breach of fundamental constitutional rights. The government defends the move as a crime prevention measure, with Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tard stating that phone tapping would be restricted to terrorism and criminal activities.
However, legal experts argue that this declaration violates basic human rights, investigative journalism, and freedom of expression. Peshawar High Court lawyer Sajjad Mehsud points out that Article 14 of the Constitution of Pakistan protects citizens' personal life and dignity, including the protection of information and communication. He argues that the government's decision risks affecting the personal lives of citizens and questions who will record the calls, how they will be used, and under what circumstances they will be shared.
Journalists express concern that such tactics will negatively impact freedom of expression and investigative journalism. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also criticizes the decision as unconstitutional [66d582fe] [df63c231].