Today (Saturday), May 3, marks World Press Freedom Day.
On this occasion, several journalists emphasized the need for clear frameworks and the formal ratification of the media law. They also raised concerns about limited access to information, financial difficulties in the media sector, and the lack of job security for journalists.
Najibullah Arman, a journalist, said: “Access to information remains a major challenge. The second issue is the financial condition of media outlets and journalists, and the third is the lack of job security for reporters.”
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also stressed the importance of supporting free media in Afghanistan and protecting the role of the press in society.
Roza Otunbayeva, the head of UNAMA, stated that restrictions and the economic challenges facing journalists have severely affected public access to vital information in Afghanistan.
She said: “Afghanistan’s media sector has been hit by — faced a sharp decline in revenue linked to the country’s economic crisis, which has forced numerous outlets to close. In addition, significant restrictions have been enforced by Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, with media professionals facing threats, arrests and detention, and torture and ill-treatment, with women journalists being especially hard hit by disproportionate risks and barriers.”
Maryam Atta, a journalist, said: “Our request to the government is to pay greater attention to female journalists and ensure their presence in all areas so we can progress in the field of journalism.”
On this day, the Ministry of Information and Culture also announced its full support for media organizations that operate in accordance with Sharia principles and uphold cultural and ethical values.
Khabib Ghufran, spokesperson for the ministry, said: “The Ministry of Information and Culture provides full support to media outlets that operate based on Islamic Sharia, respect Afghan cultural values, honor personal privacy, and avoid inciting public discord.”
World Press Freedom Day was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993 at the recommendation of UNESCO.