The scene at a Taliban news conference in Kabul. Credit: Victor J. Blue for The New York Times
July 17, 2024
KABUL - The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) has released its findings on media freedom violations in Afghanistan for the first six months of 2024, revealing a worrying trend of threats and pressure against journalists and media outlets.
According to the AFJC findings, a total of 89 cases of violations of journalists' and media rights were recorded in various provinces across the country from January to June 2024. These include 60 cases of threats against journalists and media workers, as well as 29 cases of journalist arrests.
Of particular concern are the seven instances of media outlets being closed by Taliban authorities, which include two private television stations in Kabul, two radio stations in Ghazni, one radio station in Parwan, one radio station in Laghman, and one radio station in Khost province. Three of these closures have been temporary, while the rest remain permanently shut down.
Furthermore, the findings highlight an increase in pressure on private and independent media, with the Taliban authorities, in particular, the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) and Ministry of Virtue and Vice, closely monitoring media content and interfering in the operations of local media outlets. Restrictions on what can be reported have led to threats against journalists and local private radio and television networks in the provinces that broadcast content featuring women's voices or musical backgrounds.
While restrictions on access to information are strictly enforced and relevant Taliban officials are often reluctant to talk to journalists, journalists are prohibited from reporting on issues that have not been confirmed by the Taliban officials. Additionally, journalists' personal accounts and social media postings are closely monitored and censored. Furthermore, journalists have been receiving warnings for cooperating with exile media that covers Afghanistan issues.
In light of these findings, AFJC urges the Taliban authorities to reconsider their media policy, stop making unwarranted demands on journalists and media organizations, and establish a climate that is devoid of fear and self-censorship. Additionally, AFJC cautions against persisting with limitations on private and independent media outlets, as well as the harassment and detention of journalists, stressing the importance of a free and unrestricted press in Afghanistan.