Freedom Network has urged Google and Pakistan’s government to disclose their partnership agreements and explain safeguards against surveillance and censorship. The media watchdog also sought guarantees against unrestricted access to citizens’ personal information.
The Islamabad-based organisation welcomed the partnership to advance Pakistan’s digital economy but questioned why neither side had published the agreements. It raised its concerns in an open letter, shared with the media through a press release.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated Google’s Pakistan office on August 18, alongside Google Global Affairs Vice President Wilson L. White.
Calls to publish agreements
“A big question is what exactly has been agreed? Will the government or Google publish all MoUs, agreements, contracts or other arrangements signed between them? If some provisions must remain confidential, who decided that and under what law?” Freedom Network asked.
The watchdog questioned whether undisclosed commitments covered access to user data, content, metadata or government databases.
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“Under what circumstances can Pakistani authorities request information about Google users? Will every request require a valid legal process and judicial oversight? Will Google reject requests that are overly broad, vague or inconsistent with fundamental rights?”
The August 21 memorandum covers digital skills, IT exports and innovation. Google set a target of providing 150,000 Career Certificates in Pakistan this year. The partnership also includes expanding students’ access to advanced artificial intelligence tools.
Protection for journalists and users
Freedom Network sought explicit safeguards for journalists’ Gmail, Google Drive, photos, YouTube accounts and search-related information. Such records could expose confidential sources.
It also urged Google to commit against removing content solely because a government agency requests it. The watchdog called for transparent legal standards for blocking and removal decisions. Users should receive notice and an opportunity to challenge decisions where legally possible.
Data storage emerged as another concern as Pakistan develops a national data-governance framework. The watchdog highlighted data sovereignty, minimum disclosure and citizens’ right to know who accesses their information.
“Will Pakistani users’ data be stored in Pakistan, overseas, or both?” it asked.
“There should not be informal or undocumented data-sharing arrangements between Google and the Pakistan government.”
Google’s policy and independent oversight
Google’s published policy says governments do not receive direct access to user information. Its legal team reviews each request, and the company may narrow excessive demands or object to disclosure. These are general policies, rather than confirmation of the Pakistan agreements’ terms.
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Google also says it normally notifies users before disclosure, subject to exceptions including legal prohibitions and emergencies.
Freedom Network sought independent scrutiny of the partnership’s protections.
“Who independently will audit Google’s compliance with privacy and human-rights safeguards in Pakistan? The answer should not be simply the government.”
