Journalists Criticize Taliban’s Increased Censorship and Media Suppression
Several journalists in the country have reported a significant restriction in access to information, with extensive censorship preventing many important and distressing events from reaching the public. They emphasize that under the current conditions, media outlets operate under direct pressure from the Taliban administration, severely undermining their editorial independence.
On Thursday, March 26, in interviews with 8am newspaper, these journalists stated that the crackdown on media and the growth of self-censorship have hindered the reflection of social, economic, political, and security realities. According to them, many sensitive topics are either removed or altered before publication.
These journalists believe that in some cases, citizens take responsibility themselves and convey information about events to exile-based media; however, a large portion of incidents remains uncovered due to existing restrictions. They say this situation has distanced society from free access to information.
One journalist, highlighting the serious weakening of investigative reporting, said domestic media are only allowed to publish content approved by the Taliban administration. He added that the possibility of conducting independent investigations in social, economic, political, and security fields has effectively vanished, minimizing the watchdog role of the media.
Critics argue that continuing this trend not only limits freedom of expression but also calls into question the citizens’ right to be informed about societal realities—a right that holds a fundamental place in professional journalistic principles and globally accepted standards.
