The Taliban government in Afghanistan has intensified efforts to restrict media freedom by blocking access to broadcasts from Afghan International, a prominent London-based television channel. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), this move is part of a broader crackdown on press freedom within the country.
Key Developments:
- Signal Shutdown: On September 5, Taliban authorities shut down the terrestrial signal for Afghan International, following remarks by Taliban Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Stanekzai, who declared the channel an “enemy” after it reported on alleged misuse of flood aid in Baghlan province.
- Call for Boycott: The CPJ highlighted that, in May, Taliban officials had instructed both journalists and civilians to boycott Afghan International, exacerbating the hostile environment for media professionals in the country.
- Threats to Journalists: The CPJ expressed deep concern over the severe dangers journalists face under Taliban rule, emphasizing that independent media outlets are now increasingly vulnerable to threats from authorities.
- Pattern of Restrictions: These recent actions are part of an ongoing trend of media restrictions following the Taliban’s return to power, raising alarms about the state of freedom of expression and access to information in Afghanistan.
International Monitoring:
As the situation develops, international observers are closely watching the impact of these restrictions on journalistic practices and the overall climate for free expression in the country.
