A new media directive issued by the Taliban has provoked sharp criticism from press freedom organizations, who warn that the measure marks a significant escalation in the Taliban’s crackdown on independent journalism and dissenting voices.
The directive, announced by the Ministry of Information and Culture, bars political programming without prior approval, mandates Taliban-issued credentials for analysts, and holds journalists personally accountable for any content that deviates from the group’s policies. The rules also prohibit views contrary to official narratives and require a “respectful tone” when referring to Taliban authorities.
“This new directive is a clear sign of authoritarian governance,” NAI in Exile, an Afghan media watchdog now based in Canada, said in a statement. “It closes the last remaining space for criticism and public discourse in the country.”
The directive, titled “Policy on the Management of Political Programs,” effectively demands that all political commentary conform to the Taliban’s ideological framework. According to its provisions, hosts and producers could face license suspensions or revocations for violations.
The Canada-based Free Speech Centre likened the measures to state-controlled media systems in North Korea, China and Iran.
“This is one of the most comprehensive attacks on press freedom since the Taliban’s return to power,” the group said. “The directive imposes ideological conformity and transforms political discourse into state propaganda.”
Taliban officials have defended the rules as efforts to promote “national unity” and “sound journalism.” But press advocates argue the measures criminalize dissent and reinforce an atmosphere of fear and censorship.
The directive also limits participation in public discourse to analysts vetted in fields such as religion or law, and explicitly supportive of Taliban policies. Coverage deemed harmful to “Islamic values” or “national unity” is banned.
Since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, the country’s once-thriving media landscape has been severely curtailed. More than 350 outlets have shut down, and many journalists — particularly women — have gone into hiding or fled the country. NAI in Exile estimates that fewer than 180 news organizations remain operational.
“These measures reflect not the will of the Afghan people, but the fear of a regime that cannot tolerate scrutiny or accountability,” the Free Speech Centre said.
Both organizations have called on the international community to support Afghan journalists and pressure the Taliban to reverse course.
“If this directive is allowed to stand,” NAI in Exile warned, “Afghanistan will soon be a country without a single independent voice.”
