November 28, 2024
1 min read

UN: Taliban detained 256 journalists since 2021 

A member of Taliban stands guard at a security checkpoint in Kandahar city, Afghanistan, Sept. 11, 2021. (Photo by Sanaullah Seiam/Xinhua/IANS)

While the Taliban administration pledges to ensure journalists’ safety, the UN described the current media environment as restrictive, with ongoing threats and intimidation…reports Asian Lite News

The United Nations mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported on Tuesday that the Taliban has arbitrarily detained journalists 256 times since taking power three years ago, urging the regime to safeguard media freedom. 

The report highlights the challenging environment for Afghan journalists, who face vague restrictions and risk detention for perceived criticism. Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s special representative, called on the Taliban to protect journalists and ensure women’s participation in media under fair conditions. 

In response, the Taliban-led foreign ministry disputed the detention figures, claiming all arrests were lawful and linked to offenses such as defaming the government, spreading false reports, or collaborating with “enemies” of the system. The ministry also asserted that women continue to work in media under “morality” rules, requiring face coverings and gender-segregated workplaces. 

While the Taliban administration pledges to ensure journalists’ safety, the UN described the current media environment as restrictive, with ongoing threats and intimidation. 

The Taliban’s strict interpretation of Islamic law, including curbs on women’s freedoms, has hindered its quest for international recognition since assuming power in 2021. Western nations maintain that improvements in human rights, particularly regarding women and press freedom, are critical for diplomatic progress. 

Earlier this month, former President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai met the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Afghanistan and head of UNAMA, Roza Otenbayeva and stressed the urgent need for reopening schools and universities for girls in Afghanistan. 

On social media platform X, Karzai reiterated his call for the reopening of educational institutions for girls, emphasizing the importance of education in empowering girls and women and fostering a more inclusive society in Afghanistan. 

ALSO READ: Ex-US Telecom staff jailed for spying for China 

Previous Story

Volkswagen exits Xinjiang amid human rights controversy 

Next Story

China invites Afghanistan to participate in regional meet 

Latest from -Top News

India, US Step Up Trade Talks

The development comes in the backdrop of the new US ambassador Sergio Gor taking charge in the US embassy is New Delhi….reports Asian Lite News India and the United States are progressing

Lanka Marks Next Phase of Indian Housing Drive

Phases III and IV of the Indian Housing Project highlight India’s commitment to supporting and empowering Sri Lanka’s Indian-origin Tamil community….reports Asian Lite News Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Sunday

China’s Grab for Africa

China’s investments aim to strengthen its geopolitical influence and its high-tech manufacturing sector in Africa…reports Asian Lute News China is further consolidating its dominance in the rare earth elements sector by expanding

Pakistan Courts in Peril

The question now is whether Pakistan’s courts can continue to function as guardians of the law, or whether they will be reduced to instruments of control…reports Asian Lite News Pakistan judiciary’s independence
Go toTop

Don't Miss

CIA Chief Holds Crucial Meetings With Pak, India

It is said that the main purpose of the CIA

EU, Central Asian nations call for inclusive govt in Afghanistan

The participants also reaffirmed EU and Central Asia cooperation in