Marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the U.S. mission for Afghanistan, currently based in Qatar, expressed its unwavering support for Afghan journalists who continue to face heightened risks under Taliban rule.
In a statement, the mission underscored the importance of a free press as “the cornerstone of a just society” and called for stronger protections for journalists who risk their lives to report the news. “Today, on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, we stand in solidarity with Afghan journalists who continue to face threats, violence, and intimidation in their pursuit of truth,” the embassy said.
Afghan journalists have confronted escalating dangers since the Taliban returned to power, with restrictions, threats, and detentions posing severe challenges to press freedom in the country.
The United Nations will mark this year’s International Day to End Impunity with a global commemoration on November 6-7 at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The theme, “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies,” will highlight the challenges faced by reporters in conflict zones worldwide.
