February 4, 2025
Kabul - The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) firmly condemns the recent suspension of Radio Begum's license, a private radio station in Kabul dedicated to women's issues. The de facto Ministry of Information and Culture has cited alleged multiple violations and the transmission of media content to a television station outside Afghanistan as the reasons for this decision.
In a press release disseminated today via the de facto Ministry of Information and Culture’s official page on X (formerly Twitter), it was asserted that Radio Begum, which had been licensed by the ministry, was engaged in activities deemed to constitute "multiple violations." The ministry further claimed that the station was producing content for a television outlet located abroad. The ministry indicated that the station's activities would remain suspended pending a "careful review" of its documentation.
As of now, officials from Radio Begum have not provided any public comment on this matter. Radio Begum commenced operations in Kabul on March 8, 2021—International Women's Day—aiming to raise awareness regarding women's issues.
AFJC views this action as a direct violation of Afghanistan's media law, which guarantees the rights of media outlets to operate freely. We call on the de facto authorities to reconsider this decision and allow Radio Begum to resume its vital work in promoting women's issues and raising awareness in the Afghan society.
The Afghanistan Media Law, which the de facto Ministry of Information and Culture has acknowledged, clearly states that media outlets are entitled to conduct their professional activities without undue interference or threats from officials.
Since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, media freedom has faced unprecedented restrictions, with private media outlets particularly affected. AFJC's findings indicate that in 2024 alone, at least 18 news media outlets were shut down due to direct orders from de facto authorities or restrictive measures. This includes the closure of 14 radio and television stations that remain barred from reopening.
AFJC calls upon all stakeholders to advocate for the protection of media freedoms and to support the rights of journalists and media outlets to operate without fear of censorship or persecution.