Background
Founded in Herat, Afghanistan, in June 2009, the Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) is an independent, non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting and defending press freedom in the country. Originally named the "Center to Support Journalists of Afghanistan" (CSJA), AFJC was officially registered in 2011.
Mission
AFJC empowers Afghan journalists through training workshops and digital safety support for them and their sources. We promote free expression and combat self-censorship, support exiled journalists, and advocate for press freedom by monitoring violations. Our efforts include regular reports on media freedom, legal consultations, and initiatives to enhance access to information and media development in Afghanistan.
Vision
Our vision is a future of free and professional media in Afghanistan. We aim to gather and disseminate accurate information regarding the state of press freedom, facilitating public awareness and furthering our advocacy efforts. Vigilance in documenting the country’s press freedom record is essential for fostering lasting change.
Our Work
AFJC accomplishes its mission in several ways:
- Training and Capacity Building: We enhance the quality of journalism through targeted initiatives, including basic journalism training workshops, digital security training, and conferences addressing the challenges faced by Afghan media, both domestically and in exile.
- Advocacy: We confront threats to media rights such as illegal arrests and oppressive legislation, advocating for media freedom in Afghanistan.
- Afghanistan Press Freedom Tracker: Our team meticulously monitor and documents press freedom violations, including arrests, assaults and closures of media outlets. We maintain a comprehensive database in Persian/Dari, Pashto, and English to inform advocacy, legal efforts and research.
- Research and Development: We conduct studies and implement projects to foster the growth and sustainability of the Afghan media sector.
- We celebrate and honor the courage and dedication of Afghan journalists who exemplify professionalism and commitment to truth through our prestigious Afghanistan Journalist of the Year Award.