Launch of RM Media: A new step in reflecting Afghanistan’s realities

On Tuesday, February 4, RM Media was officially launched in London in the presence of human rights activists, journalists, and national and international political figures.

This media outlet was founded by Horia Mosadiq and Nahid Baqi, two human rights activists and journalists, with the aim of reflecting the realities of Afghanistan and defending freedom of expression and human rights.

Several prominent figures spoke at the event, including Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan; Hamish Falconer, the UK’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Afghanistan; Fawzia Koofi, a human rights activist and politician; Horia Mosadiq; and Banafsha Yaqoubi, another human rights activist.

Richard Bennett welcomed RM Media’s commitment to ethical journalism, stating:
"Before the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan had an unparalleled level of press freedom in the region. However, today, the major concerns are severe internal restrictions and the spread of misinformation and disinformation."

He further emphasized the importance of holding the Taliban accountable, adding:
"Initiatives like this media outlet help ensure Afghanistan is seen and its people’s voices are heard."

Hamish Falconer stressed the necessity of supporting Afghan women and reassured that the UK government has not forgotten the Afghan people.

"Afghan women are not just survivors; they are on the front lines of the fight for human rights against the Taliban," he stated.

In her speech, Horia Mosadiq underscored that the battle against oppression can only be fought with the power of the pen.

"Against the Taliban’s weapons, we have only our pens. I will not put mine down until my last breath and will continue this fight," she declared.

Fawzia Koofi highlighted the critical role of investigative journalism:
"Today, investigative journalism is needed more than ever. I have always felt the absence of it."

She suggested that RM Media should start by reporting on the situation of girls and women detained by the Taliban.

Meanwhile, Nahid Baqi emphasized the importance of women's leadership in media and the need for a female perspective in covering Afghanistan’s events.

"The restrictions imposed by the Taliban are our lived experience. This enables us to reflect today’s realities more accurately in our investigations," she said.

Baqi also noted that RM Media will not only report on human rights violations by the Taliban but will also cover various social and cultural aspects of Afghan life.

Committed to ethical and investigative journalism, RM Media strives to be the voice of the voiceless, shedding light on Afghanistan’s realities and advocating for human rights.

The media outlet operates in three languages—Persian, Pashto, and English—and also produces radio podcasts covering Afghanistan’s cultural, social, and human rights issues.