Clampdown on Journalism: Taliban's Grip Tightens on Afghan Press

The UN and rights groups express grave concerns over the recent detention of three journalists by Afghanistan's Taliban authorities. The arrests highlight the dire press freedom situation in the country, as media workers face intimidation and harassment under Taliban rule. The international community calls for their immediate release.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Kabul | Updated: 14-05-2026 22:48 IST | Created: 14-05-2026 22:48 IST
Clampdown on Journalism: Taliban's Grip Tightens on Afghan Press
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In a disturbing development, Afghanistan's Taliban authorities have detained at least three journalists, sparking alarm among the United Nations and rights groups. The journalists face undisclosed charges, raising serious concerns about press freedom in a country already ranked low on global indexes.

The UN mission in Afghanistan has expressed its 'serious concern' about these detentions and reports of assaults against media workers. It emphasized the critical importance of a free and independent press for transparency and accountability in Afghan society.

Authorities must respect international human rights laws, ensuring journalists can work without fear. The detained professionals include notable figures from TOLONews, and pressure mounts on the Taliban to cease actions that suppress media freedom, underscoring the hostility journalists face in Afghanistan.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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