The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The Afghanistan Media Support Organization (AMSO) has called for an end to restrictions on access to information and greater protection for journalists in Afghanistan, saying media workers face threats, detention and pressure while trying to report independently.
In a statement issued on the International Day for Universal
Access to Information on Sept. 28, AMSO said the Taliban have restricted access
to government information and dismantled legal and regulatory frameworks
governing access to information.
The organization said government data, statistics and
information about social conditions are being withheld, while media outlets and
individuals seeking independent information face threats and punishment.
AMSO also accused Taliban intelligence officials and
morality authorities of interfering with journalists' work. It said journalists
have faced detention, searches, humiliation and psychological and physical
pressure, making independent and accurate reporting increasingly difficult and
contributing to self-censorship.
The organization said restrictions have also prevented
Afghan and local journalists from accessing provincial and central government
sources.
AMSO called on international human rights and press freedom
organizations to increase legal, political and diplomatic pressure on the
Taliban over restrictions on media freedom and access to information.
It also urged international donors to provide financial and
technical support to independent Afghan media outlets and journalists working
inside and outside Afghanistan.
The organization called on the United Nations to document
cases of violence against journalists, intelligence-related detentions and
restrictions on access to information in Afghanistan, saying such documentation
could help hold those responsible accountable.
“Access to information is neither a privilege nor something
subject to political bargaining,” AMSO said, describing it as a recognized and
inalienable human right.
The organization said it would continue its efforts to
provide an independent voice and help ensure Afghans have access to information
and facts.
