Mounting Pressure on Afghan Media; AMSO Calls for Immediate Release of Detained Journalists
Tawazon – The Afghanistan Media Support Organization (AMSO) has issued a statement on Wednesday, July 30, expressing deep concern over the ongoing detention, intimidation, and restrictions imposed on journalists and media professionals in the country.
AMSO emphasized that such actions pose a serious threat to the independence of media operations in Afghanistan. The organization has called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained journalists and urged the authorities to lift the restrictions on media freedom.
“Arresting and threatening journalists is a clear violation of freedom of expression,” the statement reads. “These actions not only harm the media but also undermine the rights of the people to access information.”
AMSO has firmly urged the Taliban authorities to ensure a safe, independent, and professional environment for journalists and called on officials to respect freedom of speech and eliminate the bans and limitations currently imposed on media organizations.
The organization warned that harassment, detention, and threats against journalists are not only endangering press freedom but also jeopardizing the public’s right to information. AMSO reaffirmed its commitment to defendin freedom of expression and supporting the safety and professional work of journalists, and vowed not to remain silent in the face of pressure.
According to reports, journalists in provinces such as Kabul, Logar, and Khost are facing growing threats, and media operations in these areas have been significantly restricted. Sources within the media sector say that in some regions, only official Taliban messages are permitted for broadcast, while other content is censored. AMSO described the situation as alarming and warned that many media outlets are losing the capacity to operate professionally.
Meanwhile, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has repeatedly claimed that the government is committed to supporting media activity, as long as it aligns with Islamic values, national interests, and professional principles. He stated:”We are committed to freedom of expression, but not to expressions that oppose the Islamic system or societal values.”
The Afghan Journalists Safety Committee (AFJC) reported that at least seven journalists were detained in July alone, with their office equipment and materials confiscated. It warned that such incidents have had a chilling effect on media activity across several provinces.
Since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, violations against press freedom, including arbitrary detentions, threats, and violence, have surged. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) states that at least 336 journalists have been arrested, tortured, or threatened in this period.
In 2025 alone, the AFJC has recorded nearly 140 violations against media freedom, representing a 56% increase compared to the same period last year.
