Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, the state of media in Afghanistan has rapidly deteriorated, placing journalism at risk like never before. What was once a burgeoning and vibrant press, cultivated over two decades, has been systematically dismantled, replaced by a climate of fear, censorship, and widespread repression that threatens the very existence of independent reporting.

The immediate aftermath of the Taliban takeover saw a mass exodus of journalists and a wave of media closures. Many outlets, particularly those supported by international funding or deemed critical, were forced to shut down due to economic collapse, lack of security, or direct threats. This rapid contraction dramatically reduced the diversity of information available to the Afghan populace, leaving a gaping void.

For those journalists who bravely chose to remain, the reality is one of constant peril. The Taliban have imposed vague yet sweeping restrictions on reporting, prohibiting any content deemed “against Islamic values,” “insulting to national figures,” or critical of the regime. This ambiguity forces pervasive self-censorship, as reporters are compelled to weigh every word against the severe risks of persecution, truly putting journalism at risk.

Physical intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and even torture have become common tactics employed against journalists. Reports from human rights organizations detail instances of reporters being detained, beaten, and threatened for their work. These brutal methods are designed to instill fear and ensure compliance, effectively stifling any dissenting voices and highlighting the extreme peril for journalism at risk.

Women journalists have been disproportionately affected by the new regime. Many have been forced out of their jobs, subjected to severe restrictions on their movement, and required to adhere to strict dress codes, even on air. Their voices, once prominent, are now systematically silenced, representing a significant setback for gender equality and diversity within the media landscape.