Press Freedom Under Pressure (Pakistan): HRCP and PFUJ warned Pakistan’s new Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026 could chill independent reporting, with foreign journalists needing a No Objection Certificate to travel beyond Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Kashmir Media Crackdown: CPJ flagged the disappearance of two Pakistani journalists after they reported on unrest in PoJK, while PoJK continues to face tighter controls and disappearances. Bangladesh-India Media Tensions: BNP adviser Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal condemned India for allowing Sheikh Hasina’s virtual address, calling it harmful to bilateral ties and “free mass media” in Bangladesh. Safety of Journalists (Australia): Former Today presenter Brooke Boney told a federal racism inquiry she left media after “menacing” threats, including doxxing. Newsroom Restructuring (South Africa): eNCA says it may cut about half its workforce as it shifts toward a smaller, digital-first operation. AI & Trust: News Corp escalated its fight against AI “pirates,” while coverage also highlighted how AI-generated misinformation can slip into publishing workflows. Audience Trust Gap (India): Youth protests targeted TV reporters as “lapdog” media, underscoring a widening divide between legacy broadcasters and independent digital outlets.