Islamabad: The latest analysis of 1,619 opinion columns and editorials across 12 national English and Urdu newspapers reveals that discussions on Law & Order, Crime & Terrorism, and Politics dominated print media coverage in September 2026. These themes accounted for the highest percentage of editorial attention, with Law & Order leading at 24%.

According to Gallup & Gilani Pakistan, the Media Research Division’s Monthly Newspaper Content Analysis Research Study, conducted under the supervision of Executive Director Bilal I. Gilani, highlighted these themes as central in the coverage by opinion leaders on national issues. The study, now in its 77th edition, aims to provide a detailed understanding of agenda-setting in the mainstream media.

The analysis identified a clear hierarchy of topics. Following Law & Order, Crime & Terrorism occupied 16% of the discussion, while Politics accounted for 11%. The Economy and Governance followed at 8% and 7%, respectively. Other subjects such as US-Israel war on Iran, Social, and Foreign Relations each garnered 4% of coverage, while Education and Culture & Tourism captured 3% each. Remaining topics such as Health, India-Pakistan Conflict, Justice, and International each accounted for 2%, with Climate & Environment, History, and other issues like Energy Crisis and Human Rights receiving less than 1% of editorial focus.

The study further revealed distinctions between Urdu and English newspaper coverage. Crime & Terrorism was the most discussed topic in Urdu newspapers at 19%, compared to 4% in English. Conversely, Politics and Economy received more emphasis in English publications.

Subcategories within Law & Order showed a significant focus on Corruption & Accountability Cases, which dominated the theme with 47%. Public Safety & Street Crime followed at 28%, and Policing & Police Conduct accounted for 15% of the discussion.

This content analysis highlights the shifting focus of media coverage over time, with Law & Order seeing a substantial increase from August to September. The findings underscore the evolving nature of media priorities and the role of newspapers in shaping public discourse.

The study was released by Gilani Foundation and conducted by Gallup & Gilani Pakistan, the Pakistani affiliate of Gallup International. It serves as a tool for understanding the dynamics of Pakistan’s media landscape and fostering evidence-based discussions on media quality and outreach.