While the Taliban administration pledges to ensure journalists’ safety, the UN described the current media environment as restrictive, with ongoing threats and intimidation…reports Asian Lite News
The United Nations mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported on Tuesday that the Taliban has arbitrarily detained journalists 256 times since taking power three years ago, urging the regime to safeguard media freedom.
The report highlights the challenging environment for Afghan journalists, who face vague restrictions and risk detention for perceived criticism. Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s special representative, called on the Taliban to protect journalists and ensure women’s participation in media under fair conditions.
In response, the Taliban-led foreign ministry disputed the detention figures, claiming all arrests were lawful and linked to offenses such as defaming the government, spreading false reports, or collaborating with “enemies” of the system. The ministry also asserted that women continue to work in media under “morality” rules, requiring face coverings and gender-segregated workplaces.
While the Taliban administration pledges to ensure journalists’ safety, the UN described the current media environment as restrictive, with ongoing threats and intimidation.
The Taliban’s strict interpretation of Islamic law, including curbs on women’s freedoms, has hindered its quest for international recognition since assuming power in 2021. Western nations maintain that improvements in human rights, particularly regarding women and press freedom, are critical for diplomatic progress.
Earlier this month, former President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai met the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Afghanistan and head of UNAMA, Roza Otenbayeva and stressed the urgent need for reopening schools and universities for girls in Afghanistan.
On social media platform X, Karzai reiterated his call for the reopening of educational institutions for girls, emphasizing the importance of education in empowering girls and women and fostering a more inclusive society in Afghanistan.
