The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization (AJSO) has accused the Taliban of “censoring and threatening” the Afghan media, describing a “shadow of restriction and oppression” over journalism in the country.
Marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, AJSO reported a significant rise in detentions, imprisonments, torture, and threats against journalists since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021.
In a statement, AJSO said that despite the increase in violence against the press, the Taliban has yet to establish any formal laws or institutions to address crimes against journalists. Under Taliban rule, AJSO noted, Afghanistan has become one of the world’s most dangerous countries for media professionals.
The organization called on international bodies to address impunity for crimes against journalists, both in Afghanistan and globally, and urged the creation of a coordinated mechanism to protect media workers. AJSO also raised concerns about Afghan journalists in exile, particularly in Pakistan and Iran, where many live in fear, facing threats, deprivation, and limited access to basic rights and professional opportunities.
This year, the United Nations will mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists with a global commemoration on November 6-7 at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the theme “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies.”
