In the complex media landscape of Pakistan, where narratives are constantly shaped by political influence, foreign agendas, and commercial interests, the concept of patriotic journalism stands out as a guiding light. To explore this vision, we sat down with Czechangez Khan Jadoon, a senior member of National Press Club Islamabad. While serving as the General Secretary of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ-Workers), he also heads Patriotic Journalists of Pakistan, a media forum to unite Pakistani journalists belonging to different parts of the country and abroad, as well as aims to defending Pakistan’s ideological boundaries through responsible and nation-first reporting.
In this candid exclusive interview, Mr. Jadoon shares his perspective on the media’s role in nation-building, the challenges patriotic journalists face, and why it’s critical for Pakistan to foster a media culture rooted in integrity and love for the homeland.
Q: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Jadoon. First of all, what inspired you to lead a movement like the Patriotic Journalists of Pakistan?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Thank you for having me. My journey in journalism spans over several decades, and during this time, I witnessed how deeply media can impact national thought, morale, and perception — both positively and negatively. Unfortunately, in recent years, I saw a disturbing trend: foreign narratives being adopted uncritically, misinformation spreading under the guise of “breaking news,” and a growing disconnect between journalists and national interest. That’s when I realized that we needed a united platform where journalists prioritize Pakistan first. That’s how the Patriotic Journalists of Pakistan (PJP) was born. I am also grateful to the Press Network of Pakistan for its unwavering patronage of this noble cause since day one.
Q: How would you define ‘patriotic journalism’? Some critics say this term is vague or even restrictive.
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Patriotic journalism is not about suppressing the truth or being blindly loyal to any government. It’s about upholding the sovereignty, integrity, and image of Pakistan in the face of propaganda, hybrid warfare, and misinformation. We must speak truth to power, but without becoming tools for foreign agendas. Patriotic journalism means constructive criticism — not defamation. It means highlighting problems while also offering solutions, and giving space to stories that strengthen national unity and hope.
Q: You’ve mentioned foreign agendas. Do you believe Pakistani media is under external influence?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Absolutely — and it’s not a conspiracy theory. Media is a battleground now. Fifth-generation warfare is real. Enemies don’t need tanks when they can influence minds. From foreign-funded NGOs to digital influencers, many narratives are subtly crafted to create disillusionment and internal chaos. When some anchors or outlets amplify those lines without fact-checking or context, knowingly or unknowingly, they become part of that war. That’s where patriotic journalism steps in: we act as a filter, defending truth and national perspective.
Q: What kind of activities or initiatives does PJP organize?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
We are considering to organize workshops, media training sessions, and awareness campaigns that focus on ethical journalism with a patriotic lens. We also publish monthly bulletins that analyze national and international news from a patriotic standpoint. Our members — who now exceed 1,000 from across the country — regularly contribute to counter-narrative content, especially on digital platforms. Recently, we launched a youth outreach program to train university journalism students in responsible reporting and critical thinking.
Q: What challenges does your organization face from within the media industry?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Our biggest challenge is perception. Some in the mainstream media brand us as ‘state-friendly’ or accuse us of being anti-democratic. That’s far from the truth. We are pro-Pakistan, not pro-government or pro-opposition. We’ve criticized policies and corruption wherever necessary, but we do so without compromising national dignity. Another challenge is resources — since we don’t accept foreign funding, everything we do is powered by local donations and member contributions.
Q: In your view, how should journalism balance criticism and patriotism?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Criticism is essential in any democracy. But it must come from a place of reform, not destruction. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, we often see media focused on shaming the country internationally rather than correcting it internally. For example, if there’s an economic crisis, instead of only blaming the country, we should also highlight resilience, offer expert advice, and cover those sectors which are still growing. Patriotism doesn’t mean silence; it means responsibility.
Q: How do you view the role of social media in shaping public opinion and patriotic journalism?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Social media is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it gives voice to the voiceless, but on the other hand, it amplifies fake news like wildfire. We’re seeing the rise of keyboard warriors and pseudo-journalists who share manipulated videos, hate-filled commentary, or anti-state content for clicks. That’s why PJP is investing heavily in digital training, digital ethics, and patriotic influencer development. The battlefield has shifted to TikTok, Twitter (X), and YouTube — we need to be active there too.
Q: What is your opinion on the role of state institutions in media freedom?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
State institutions must ensure media freedom, but also media responsibility. Freedom without accountability leads to chaos. There must be a balance where journalists can investigate and report fearlessly, but with evidence and ethics. We’ve also seen foreign-funded media houses misusing this freedom to push narratives that are damaging. PJP believes in a self-regulating, transparent media body that includes senior journalists, legal experts, and representatives of civil society.
Q: What message would you give to young Pakistani journalists and students entering the media industry?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
My message is simple: love your country and let that love guide your pen. Be brave, be curious, but also be loyal to truth and Pakistan. Don’t fall for the glamour of foreign awards or international applause that comes at the cost of your country’s dignity. You are not just a reporter — you are a soldier in the battlefield of narratives. Read more, verify more, and write with purpose.
Q: Final thoughts — how do you envision the media’s role in Pakistan’s future?
Czechangez Khan Jadoon:
Media will either make or break this nation. We are living in an era where wars are won through perception. If we don’t reclaim our narrative, others will define us. I believe that through patriotic journalism, we can unite, inspire, and educate the people of Pakistan. We can highlight our heroes, amplify our achievements, and fight the battles that matter — with words, facts, and unwavering love for this country.
Conclusion
Czechangez Khan Jadoon’s insights shed light on a vision for journalism that isn’t just about headlines and ratings — it’s about nation-building. As Pakistan navigates a challenging regional and global environment, voices like his remind us that journalism rooted in patriotism, integrity, and truth has never been more essential.
