Richard Bennett, the UN special rapporteur for Afghanistan, has sharply criticized a new set of Taliban media regulations, describing them as a “clear sign of intensifying censorship and authoritarianism” and “another dark day for press freedom.”
In a statement posted on X, Bennett said the Taliban’s latest policy targeting political programming on Afghanistan’s media is “deeply concerning” and adds to the growing restrictions on an already heavily censored press environment.
The new directive, issued by the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, bans all critical political discussions on television and radio unless pre-approved. The document, formally titled “Policy on the Management of Political Programs in Afghanistan,” requires outlets to submit daily lists of program topics and guests to a special oversight committee.
Even previously approved analysts must be re-approved for each appearance, and all commentators must carry official identification issued by the Taliban’s Directorate of Broadcasting. Expression of any opinion that contradicts the Taliban’s policies is strictly prohibited.
Taliban claim the measures are intended to uphold “Islamic principles,” preserve “national unity,” and prevent ethnic, sectarian, or linguistic divisions. The directive also asserts aims such as “preventing propaganda,” encouraging “fact-based reporting,” and ensuring “respect for Taliban policies.”
Press freedom organizations and journalists have described the order as one of the most repressive restrictions on free expression since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
“These rules mark a significant escalation in the Taliban’s efforts to silence dissent and transform Afghanistan’s media into a tool of state propaganda,” Bennett said.
The directive applies to all forms of media — print, broadcast, and digital — further tightening the Taliban’s grip on the flow of information in a country where independent journalism is already under immense pressure.
