Taliban Limits Political Guest Invitations, Sparking Media Freedom Concerns
The Taliban administration, through the Ministry of Information and Culture, has instructed domestic media outlets to invite only individuals who possess an identity card and official approval from the ministry to participate in political programs. This decision has provoked strong reactions from media support organizations.
The Afghanistan Media Support Organization (AMSO) issued a statement on Wednesday, 29 April, condemning the move as direct interference in media work and a blatant violation of freedom of expression and citizens’ right to access information. The organization emphasized that such restrictions undermine the editorial independence of media outlets.
According to the AMSO statement, the selection of topics and guests for programs should be based on professional criteria and audience needs, not government orders. The organization warned that any external interference damages the professional identity of media and restricts the free space for exchanging ideas.
AMSO also asserted that diversity of opinions is essential for a healthy society, and limiting guests in political programs constitutes a form of public thought control and censorship. The organization urged the Taliban administration to ensure free media activity and the security of journalists based on internationally accepted principles.
Previously, the Taliban administration had provided media outlets with a list of approved analysts and emphasized that no individuals outside this list should be invited to political discussions. Additionally, the presence of certain critical analysts in media programs has been completely banned—actions that have heightened concerns over increasing restrictions on the country’s media landscape.
