UN Report Highlights Media Freedom Violations in Afghanistan

A UN report has highlighted severe restrictions on media freedom in Afghanistan since the Taliban's takeover, documenting 336 human rights violations against journalists, including 256 arbitrary detentions and 130 cases of torture. The report, released by the UNAMA and the UN Human Rights Office, emphasizes the detrimental impact of censorship and intimidation, particularly on women journalists, who face discriminatory practices hindering their participation in the media. The Taliban's foreign ministry contested the report's findings, claiming that arrests are justified and not arbitrary, insisting that journalists who violate laws face consequences. The UN has called for the Taliban to align its practices with international law and ensure the safety of all media workers. With many media outlets shutting down and a pervasive culture of self-censorship prevailing, the UN urges the de facto authorities to recognize the crucial role of a free press in society. The situation remains dire, compounded by dwindling financial support for Afghanistan's media sector.