Following the Taliban regime’s new media guidelines in Afghanistan, the Islamic Emirate’s freedom of expression is in jeopardy, as the group announced that no media or news agencies are allowed to publish anything that is contrary to the so-called administration of the Taliban. 

Local authorities in northern Badakhshan province have asked media outlets to publish their reports after a review and censorship, according to Khaama Press, citing the Afghanistan Journalists Safety Committee.

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As per Khaama Press, the provincial Director of Information and Culture, Muezuddin Ahmadi, has stated that women are not allowed to appear in public for reporting purposes, however, female media workers can work in the office alongside male employees.

Countless journalists fled the country, others went into hiding, and many women were forced out of their jobs due to fear of retaliation for their reporting. Smaller businesses have also been hit hard by the economic downturn. 

According to Nehad Rasana-e-Afghanistan (NAI), a media advocacy group in Afghanistan, over 257 media outlets have shut down in the country since the Islamic Emirate took power due to budget constraints and restrictions. This includes newspapers, radio stations, and television stations. 

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“The recent statement, which has eight articles (from the Virtue and Vice ministry) has raised concerns. We hope the issue is resolved in consultation with the media,” said Hujatullah Mujadedi, head of the Afghanistan Independent Journalist Association.

“We urge that the Law on Access to Information, and Media Law, which are not being used now, be amended based on the current situation and in consultation with the media,” said Masroor Lutfi, media officer working with Afghanistan National Journalists’ Union, reported Uni India. 

Over 70% of media workers have lost their jobs or left the country, according to the watchdog. The people who are actually upholding freedom of speech and expression have been the ones who have been the most affected. 

No media outlets were allowed to report on government corruption, mismanagement, a lack of capacity, or the Taliban’s treatment of civilians.