The Free Speech Hub has reported that several Afghan journalists who sought refuge in Turkey following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan are now facing the threat of deportation.
In a statement, the organization called for support for these journalists, citing the risks they face in Turkey, including the fear of deportation, legal uncertainty, and severe economic challenges.
On September 18, the Free Speech Hub held a meeting with over 30 Afghan journalists residing in Turkey. During the meeting, journalists shared “heartbreaking stories” about their struggles, including fears of being deported back to Afghanistan.
The organization also claimed that some journalists are being pursued by “Taliban infiltrators” in Turkey, further heightening their sense of insecurity.
The Free Speech Hub highlighted the lack of residency documents, unemployment, and economic hardship as the primary challenges these Afghan journalists face in Turkey. The organization called on the Afghan embassy in Turkey to help extend residency permits for the affected journalists.
This situation unfolds as the Taliban continues to tighten its grip on media freedom in Afghanistan. The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization (AJSO) reported that the Taliban has banned the live broadcast of political programs and has pressured media outlets to feature Taliban-approved experts on television.
AJSO described the new restrictions as a severe violation of press freedom and freedom of expression, signaling further censorship of the media under Taliban rule.
