Pakistan Launches First Overseas English News Channel Amid Disinformation Concerns

Pakistan has launched its first satellite-based English-language international news channel, named Asia One, with the stated goal of presenting the country’s perspective to a global audience. However, security analysts warn that the platform could also be used as part of a coordinated disinformation campaign overseas, raising concerns among neighboring countries and international observers.

According to officials, Asia One is designed to broadcast Pakistan’s views on regional politics, culture, and economic developments directly to audiences abroad. While the government describes it as a “soft power” tool to counter what it sees as “biased international coverage,” experts believe it could be used to influence public opinion and spread narratives aligned with Pakistan’s political and strategic objectives.

The move comes at a time of growing information warfare across South Asia. Disinformation campaigns — often involving state-backed media — have become a common tool in geopolitical rivalries, with television, social media, and satellite broadcasting being used to shape perceptions far beyond national borders.

By launching an English-language channel, Pakistan aims to reach policymakers, business leaders, diaspora communities, and younger global audiences. English, being the primary language of international diplomacy and media, gives Asia One the ability to bypass regional language barriers and tap into influential markets in Europe, North America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Critics, however, point to past incidents where state-run media in the region have been accused of spreading false or misleading information to discredit rival governments or promote favorable political narratives. They warn that if Asia One follows a similar path, it could deepen mistrust, fuel diplomatic tensions, and complicate already sensitive regional relations.

This development also reflects Pakistan’s attempt to expand its media influence infrastructure in the face of competing narratives from countries like India, which operates its own international English news outlets. As global audiences become more polarized and news consumption increasingly shifts to satellite and digital platforms, such media initiatives can serve as both a diplomatic tool and a strategic weapon.

In the coming months, observers will be watching Asia One closely to see whether it functions as a genuine news platform — or becomes another instrument in the complex and escalating battle over information and influence in South Asia and beyond.