KABUL: The Afghan Journalists Center reported that in the first half of 2025, at least 140 cases of media freedom violations and attacks on journalists were recorded, marking a 56% increase compared to the same period last year.
According to the report, the most common violations included threats to media outlets and their staff, the detention of journalists, severe restrictions on women working in media, and the closure of at least 26 media outlets, primarily local television stations.
The center also noted an increase in pressure on media in Kabul, with the Taliban banning the broadcasting of political and economic programs.
The organization warned that continued repression of media freedom would have devastating consequences for the country’s future and urged the Taliban to respect the basic rights of media outlets.
Additionally, it called on the international community to exert pressure on the Taliban to support media freedom in Afghanistan.
