KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – Only about 190 women journalists remain working across Afghanistan, a sharp decline from more than 2,000 before the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, the Free Speech Centre said in a statement marking International Women’s Day.
The Toronto-based organization said the figure shows that around 86% of Afghan women journalists have lost their jobs or are no longer able to work freely in the country’s media sector.
The statement highlighted the impact of restrictions imposed since the Taliban returned to power, which it said have significantly reduced women’s participation in journalism and public life.
According to the group, the decline has left large parts of the country without female representation in the media. In about 20 of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces, there are currently no women journalists working in the profession.
The Free Speech Centre said women reporters who continue working inside Afghanistan face security threats, economic pressure, and strict limitations on their activities. In several provinces, female journalists reportedly publish stories anonymously or avoid using bylines in order to reduce the risk of retaliation.
“Today, your stories and your words matter more than ever,” the organization said in its message to Afghan women journalists. “By writing and documenting, you defend human rights and the public’s right to information.”
“We honor your courage and recognize your sacrifice,” the organization added.
The organization also acknowledged the role of Afghan women journalists who have continued reporting from outside the country. Some now collaborate remotely with exile-based media organizations, producing stories on issues affecting Afghan women and society.
“Despite these dire circumstances, Afghan women journalists in exile continue their work—now more than ever—standing in solidarity with their colleagues inside the country,” the organization said.
The organization raised concerns about the safety of Afghan journalists living in neighboring countries such as Iran and Pakistan. It said many face uncertain legal status and potential risks, including detention or forced deportation, while attempting to continue their professional work abroad.
The Free Speech Centre called on governments, international organizations, and media institutions to strengthen support mechanisms for Afghan journalists. It urged expanded emergency assistance, greater backing for independent exile media outlets, and the creation of pathways that allow displaced journalists to continue their careers safely.
Media conditions in Afghanistan have changed sharply since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Numerous media outlets have closed or significantly reduced operations as a result of financial pressures, security concerns, and new restrictions on coverage.
Women journalists have been particularly affected by these developments. Many have been unable to continue working due to limits on appearing on television, barriers to covering certain public events, and restrictions on travel for reporting assignments.
Despite these challenges, a small number of journalists continue their work inside Afghanistan, often under strict conditions and with limited resources. Others operate from exile, producing coverage for international audiences and attempting to keep information flowing from Afghanistan while documenting the realities of daily life under Taliban rule.
