The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Afghan Independent Journalists’ Union (AIJU) have condemned the ongoing shutdown of media outlets in Afghanistan, calling for the immediate reinstatement of their operating licenses.
The criticism follows the Taliban-run Afghan Telecom Regulatory Authority’s (ATRA) recent suspension of 14 media outlets in Nangarhar province, citing non-payment of license fees.
In a statement released on July 22, the IFJ highlighted the Taliban’s suspension of at least 17 broadcast licenses, including those of 14 media outlets in eastern Nangarhar. The organization expressed grave concern over what it described as the Taliban’s continued efforts to stifle press freedom in the country.
“Attempting to shutter outlets under the pretext of non-payment of license fees is of great concern, and the IFJ is investigating why the Taliban continues to operate under a licensing system that predates its rule,” the IFJ stated.
Since the Taliban’s return to power nearly three years ago, dozens of media outlets across Afghanistan have been forced to cease operations due to economic difficulties and the increasing restrictions on press freedom imposed by the regime. The IFJ and AIJU’s condemnation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by journalists and media organizations under Taliban rule, as they grapple with both financial pressures and a hostile regulatory environment.
