Taliban Administration Issues 141 New Media Licenses, Emphasizes Support for Media on World Press Freedom Day
The Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture spokesperson announced that in the year 1404 in the Persian calendar, the administration has issued 141 new licenses for mass and social media, cultural institutions, and organizations, while expressing support for the media. Khabib Ghafran made these remarks on Saturday, the 13th of Sowr, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day, in a video message.
He stated that the ministry believes in the fundamental role of the media in society and considers it vital for providing public awareness and strengthening the relationship between the people and the government. However, he emphasized that media outlets must conduct their activities within the framework of “Afghan religious and cultural values, the Islamic Emirate’s publishing policy, the country’s supreme interests, and the protection of individuals’ privacy.”
The Ministry of Information and Culture’s spokesperson also added that the administration is committed to improving access to information and has plans this year to strengthen relations between the media and Taliban press officials. According to him, organizing seminars and professional and scientific programs at the center and provinces is part of these plans to enhance the media sector’s specialized capacities.
Despite these statements, in recent years, several journalists and media organizations have expressed concerns about restrictions, censorship, and increasing pressures on media activities in the country. Critics argue that the emphasis on adhering to the Taliban administration’s publishing policies could limit the scope of free media operations and challenge journalists’ professional independence.
May 3 is designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as World Press Freedom Day. The day aims to remind governments of their commitment to freedom of expression and to provide an environment for free and responsible media activity, a principle that the Afghan media community has always closely watched for practical realization.
