The Journalists’ Support Organization in Afghanistan has recently announced that approximately 58% of female journalists do not have access to legal channels in case their requests for information are denied.
On Tuesday, January 1, the organization published a report stating that the majority of “Emirate” institutions, particularly the office of the Prime Minister of the interim government, do not provide information to women journalists, who face challenges in accessing information in Afghanistan.
The report further mentions that the office of the current Prime Minister provides relatively easier access to information for independent analysts and health workers.
According to the report, women journalists across Afghanistan are facing serious problems regarding access to information.
The report specifically highlights the restrictions imposed by security institutions and current rulers, especially the office of the Prime Minister, on female journalists.
Based on the findings of this report, the interim government shares information with female journalists due to gender discrimination and fear of exposing truths.
The organization emphasized that about 38% of women journalists attribute their lack of access to information to gender discrimination, while 33% consider fear of truth exposure as the main reason for informational restrictions.
Furthermore, around 58% of female journalists stated that they have no referral to legal authorities or are unable to do so if their requests for information are denied.
The Journalists’ Support Organization added that this situation indicates a weakness in legal and informational mechanisms.
The report mentions that at least two-thirds of respondents pointed to the lack of legal guarantees and believe that there is no security for them against an unaccountable regime.
The report from the Journalists’ Support Organization in Afghanistan emphasizes that support for freedom of expression and defense of journalists’ rights, especially those of female journalists, is more essential now than ever.
It is worth noting that following the current government’s takeover of Afghanistan, extensive restrictions have been imposed on media and particularly on women journalists.
According to findings from the UN Women section, after the current government’s return to power in Afghanistan, 80% of female journalists were forced to leave their jobs due to restrictions, harassment, and intimidation.
