IFJ: Women Journalists First Victims of Extremism in Afghanistan

DID Press: The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has issued a stark warning about the escalating threats faced by women, particularly female journalists, amid the spread of extremism, citing Afghanistan as one of the most concerning cases.

Marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Tuesday, the IFJ highlighted that the Taliban’s restrictive policies on women’s education and employment have forced a significant number of Afghan women journalists out of the profession. According to the Afghanistan National Journalists Union (ANJU), 87% of female journalists under Taliban rule have experienced gender-based discrimination, and 60% have lost their jobs.

The IFJ described this situation as a clear example of “women being targeted as the first victims of extremism” and noted that attacks, threats, and violence—including online harassment and coordinated smear campaigns—have severely undermined press freedom and women’s rights.

In a statement, the federation urged governments and media organizations to strengthen protective laws for women, enhance the security of journalists against extremist groups, and take immediate action with digital platforms to counter online threats and misogynistic narratives.