Sharp Raise In Violence Against Journalists

During the recent months, especially during the two three recent weeks, Violence and threats against Afghanistan’s journalists has had unprecedented increase, Nai- Supporting Open Media in Afghanistan said.

Violence against journalists in Afghanistan seriously limits media freedom in the country, reducing the efficiency of development efforts in the country.

According to Nai, not only the armed oppositions of the government but also the government authorities have threatened, assaulted, and killed dozens of journalists since 2002 without any fear of prosecution.

The Presidential and Provincial Councils’ Elections, withdrawal of majority of foreign troops from Afghanistan, increase in insecurity and attacks of armed opposition groups made the current year a challenging year for Afghan Media community.

“The main reason for the continuing violence and resulting instability has been the war waged by the Taliban against the desire for peace and democracy that the Afghan people demonstrated in the presidential election,” Sidiqullah Tawhidi, the Head of Nai’s Media Watch said.

Female journalists also face particularly formidable challenges. Social and cultural restrictions limit their mobility in urban as well as rural areas, and increase their vulnerability to threats and attacks, including sexual violence.

President Ghani had pledged during his election campaign that he would drop all politically motivated and unsubstantiated charges against journalists. He and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah also committed to upholding freedom of expression and protecting journalists against abuse.

A lack of awareness on the part of security forces about the rights and duties of journalists also spurs on the violence and intimidation. In addition, lacking prosecution of perpetrators has emboldened warlords to increase their attacks on journalists.

Journalists alongside the Afghan security forces have been the victims of security situations in Afghanistan.

Reported by Farahnaz Forutan