UN reports 336 human rights violations against Afghan journalists under Taliban rule

Nov 26, 2024 - 06:33
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UN reports 336 human rights violations against Afghan journalists under Taliban rule

The United Nations has documented 336 cases of human rights violations against journalists in Afghanistan since the Taliban took power in August 2021. A report by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) highlights arbitrary arrests, torture, and threats faced by journalists over the last three years.

According to the report:

  • 256 journalists, including 7 women, were arbitrarily detained.
  • 130 journalists, including 8 women, were tortured or mistreated.
  • 75 journalists, including 9 women, faced threats or intimidation.

The UN emphasizes that female journalists have faced significant discrimination, further limiting their ability to work.

Rosa Otunbayeva, head of UNAMA, called on the Taliban to ensure the safety of journalists and recognize the critical role of women in media. Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, called the findings “deeply troubling” and urged the Taliban to align their actions with international law.

Since taking power, the Taliban have imposed severe restrictions on media, including bans on broadcasts in some provinces, further eroding press freedom. The UN calls for urgent action to protect journalists and uphold their rights.