Afghan Journalists Face Mounting Challenges on World Press Freedom Day

Weezharoz– Hojatullah Mujadidi, head of the Afghan Independent Journalists’ Union, spoke at a commemorative event and revealed that approximately 5,000 individuals are currently working across 470 media outlets in Afghanistan, including 747 women.

He noted, however, that more than half of these individuals work voluntarily or without fixed salaries.

Mujadidi outlined the current situation facing journalists in three key areas:

1.Economic Challenges: A significant number of journalists and media outlets are grappling with serious financial problems, as a lack of sufficient funding continues to hinder media operations.

2.Access to Information: While some government institutions have taken steps to improve information access, journalists still report facing numerous restrictions and bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining official data.

3.Job and Mental Security: Afghan journalists have long worked under pressure and threats, but recent developments have exacerbated these challenges, placing their professional and psychological well-being at greater risk.

According to a recent report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), over 80% of female journalists in Afghanistan have lost their jobs, and there are no active female reporters in half of the country’s 34 provinces.

In light of these developments, Mujadidi urged the Ministry of Information and Culture, along with national and international institutions, to take meaningful actions to improve financial support, job security, and access to information for journalists hoping that next year would bring better conditions for media workers.

Meanwhile, journalists reiterated the importance of press freedom and called for increased support to ensure they can continue reporting independently and without fear.

Weezharoz