On the occasion of September 28, International Day for Universal Access to Information, the Afghanistan Journalists’ Center condemned the Taliban’s sweeping restrictions on freedom of expression and citizens’ right to information, warning that female journalists have been pushed to the margins.
According to the Center, since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have issued at least 22 directives that severely curtail media freedom and block public access to information.
Many of these restrictions specifically target women, including bans on female journalists in national media, prohibitions on women reporting in mixed environments, and the exclusion of women from broadcast and entertainment programs.
“Afghans are now living in an information blackout—one not caused by war, but by a deliberate policy,” said Somaya Walizada, head of advocacy at the Center. “The authorities in power have silenced journalists, blocked access to public data, and deprived citizens of their right to know.”
She stressed that access to information is not a privilege but a fundamental right that every Afghan must enjoy.
The Center further noted that censorship, intimidation, and severe internet restrictions have left female journalists increasingly vulnerable. Many women reporters have either lost their jobs or continue under heavy constraints, as the Taliban expand their systematic crackdown on media and freedom of speech.
