Journalists Support Organization Condemns Suspension Of Afghanistan's Only Women's Radio

The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization has condemned the suspension of Begum Radio broadcasts, adding that the station, despite holding an official broadcasting license, was shut down in an“opaque” and“unfair” process.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 4, the organization called on the Taliban to reconsider their decision and allow the radio station to continue its operations.

The Ministry of Information and Culture stated that Begum Radio was producing content and programs for a television based abroad, which led to the suspension of its broadcast for violating broadcasting policies and misuse of its license.

The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization further described this action as part of the“continuing policy of suppressing free media.” They emphasized that according to the media law, media outlets should have the freedom to carry out their professional work without restrictions or threats from authorities.

Begum Radio, which began broadcasting on March 8, 2021, coinciding with International Women's Day, was founded by Hamida Aman, and its programs were managed and operated by women.

The Ministry of Information and Culture has stated that the suspension will remain in effect until a“thorough review” of the documents and activities related to Begum Radio's operations.

The ongoing restriction of media freedoms in Afghanistan, particularly the closure of independent women-run outlets like Begum Radio, highlights the increasing suppression of free journalism in the country. The Taliban's restrictions have severely limited the role of female journalists, leaving many women journalists without a platform or the ability to carry out their profession freely.

As international calls for the protection of media freedoms and women's rights in Afghanistan grow, the future of Afghanistan's media remains uncertain. The continuing crackdown on female journalists and the suppression of independent media outlets further undercuts efforts for a democratic and free society in Afghanistan.

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