Afghanistan Independent Radios and Televisions Coordination Center (AIRTCC) Condemns Taliban's New Decrees Restricting Media Freedom

Kabul, Afghanistan - January 18, 2023

In response to the recent series of decrees by the Taliban aimed at exerting control over Afghanistan's media space, Afghanistan Independent Radios and Televisions Coordination Center (AIRTCC) issues a statement expressing deep concern and urging a commitment to press freedom.

The Taliban, through its Ministry of Information and Culture, has mandated that Afghan media abstain from using what it deems "foreign terms." Afghan media outlets obtained a copy of the directive issued by Khairullah Khairkhah, the Taliban’s Minister of Information and Culture, expressing the hope that media outlets uphold the national languages' principles, rules, and grammar, devoid of foreign language influence.

Despite the directive, the Taliban's letter lacks clarity on the specific terms deemed foreign, providing neither measures of judgment nor a designated authority for such determinations.

Moreover, the Taliban has recently disclosed the drafting of a new media and information law, awaiting approval from its supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. While the group purportedly relies on regulations from the previous republic government, there are concerns about its interpretation and implementation, particularly with regard to press freedom

Despite permitting some media organizations to operate within the country, the Taliban has imposed significant restrictions, dictating program content and tightly controlling reporting on sensitive topics. Journalists who challenge these restrictions face severe consequences, including arrest, detention, and torture.

The impact is particularly pronounced for women journalists, as the Taliban's restrictive policies have led to a financial crisis, with 95% of female journalists losing their jobs, according to the International Federation of Journalists.

AIRTCC underscores the critical importance of preserving press freedom and calls on the Taliban to reconsider restrictions on media content and language use. The organization stands in solidarity with journalists facing challenges and remains dedicated to upholding the principles of a free and diverse media landscape in Afghanistan.