RSF Calls for End to Severe Media Restrictions in Afghanistan

DID Press: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has criticized the state of press freedom in Afghanistan, saying the Taliban have imposed widespread restrictions on media outlets and journalists since returning to power in August 2021 through more than 20 nationwide directives and a series of local orders.

In a statement, the organization said bans on criticizing the government, restrictions targeting women, the suppression of political debate and a prohibition on broadcasting images of living beings have severely restricted the media environment.

The organization also reported the secret adoption of a new Criminal Procedure Law in January 2026, saying it provides no special protections for journalists and media workers and leaves them vulnerable to severe punishments, including imprisonment and flogging. RSF said some provisions criminalize insulting the leadership and contacting government opponents, while vague definitions of offenses such as “rebellion” and “subversion” could be used to suppress journalists.

Celia Mercier, RSF’s head of South Asia, said the Taliban had systematically turned Afghanistan into a “prison for information” over the past five years and that the formalization of the ban on criticism had further institutionalized censorship.

RSF called on the Taliban to repeal all regulations restricting press freedom. The organization also urged countries hosting Afghan journalists to prevent their forced return and provide the visas and necessary support to journalists who have left Afghanistan to protect their lives and continue their professional work.