CODE OF ETHICS AND LAWS FOR MEDIA IN PAKISTAN

The 21st century has been described as the age of mass media revolution. The messages of mass media are directed, pointed and extremely influential. The use of media for intended messages that persuade the audience members to bring some changes in a behavior pattern is quite common. Research has shown that media organizations are razors sharpened at both the ends having baneful effect on the audience as well. This is why it is necessary to formulate a code of ethics for mass media. Ethical issues include different kinds of topics to cover, accuracy, truthfulness, impartiality, fairness and the respect of individual’s privacy. It also includes what kind of messages to include in magazines, films, or television and how to protect the confidentiality of sources. The paper suggests the various laws and code of ethics necessary for the regulation of mass media.