The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) has released its findings on media freedom violations in Afghanistan for the first six months of 2024, reporting that seven media outlets have been shut down in the first half of 2024 under Taliban orders.

These include two private television stations in Kabul, two radio stations in Ghazni, one radio station in Parwan, one radio station in Laghman, and one radio station in Khost province. Three of these closures have been temporary, while the rest remain permanently shut down.

According to the AFJC, a total of 89 cases of violations of journalists’ and media rights were recorded in various provinces across the country from January to June 2024.

The findings highlighted an increase in pressure on private and independent media, with the Taliban authorities closely monitoring media content and interfering in the operations of local media outlets. There have been threats against journalists and local private radio and television networks in the provinces that broadcast content featuring women’s voices or musical backgrounds.

Journalists who cooperate with exile media that covers Afghanistan issues have also been receiving warnings.

According to the report: “Local journalists can only collaborate with national media by obtaining approval from local authorities. This pressure extends to the publication of any content on social networks and personal accounts of journalists.”

AFJC has urged the Taliban authorities to reconsider their media policy, stop making unwarranted demands on journalists and media organizations, and establish a climate that is devoid of fear and self-censorship.

Photo: AFJC Press Release        Credit: Victor J. Blue for The New York Times