Richard Bennett: Taliban systematically suppresses freedom of expression in Afghanistan

Elaha Fri Nov 2025 1 week ago 88

Mr. Bennett, who spoke online on (Friday, November 21), explained that according to his latest report to the Human Rights Council, journalists and media workers are confronted with severe censorship, threats, intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and detentions. He stated that female journalists, in particular, face multiple challenges due to extensive restrictions on their freedom of movement and right to work.


According to him, the Taliban have compelled all domestic media outlets to obtain pre-approval for their content before publication, and political analysts are not permitted to express views contrary to the group's policies without a special identification card.


He added that the Taliban have also brought the cultural and artistic spheres under control; for instance, poetry gatherings now require prior permission, and critical, emotional, or romantic poems are subject to restrictions. Furthermore, with the gradual imposition of a ban on publishing images of living beings, many media outlets have been forced to turn to audio broadcasting.


Bennett emphasized that these measures are not isolated but part of a broader program to silence independent thought and eliminate spaces for questioning, imagination, and hope in Afghan society. He said that today's Afghanistan is not only facing the suppression of human rights but also the suppression of its memory, identity, and future.


He described the role of exiled media as vital, adding that journalists working from outside the country are now at the forefront of defending the truth, documenting violations, and giving voice to the citizens inside the country. Nevertheless, he warned that these media outlets are grappling with serious financial problems, and these shortages have limited their capacity for in-depth reporting and pursuing justice.


In conclusion, Bennett called on international institutions and donors to maintain and strengthen their support for Afghanistan's independent media.

Richard Bennett, the United Nations Human Rights Council's Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, announced at the "Global Symposium for Freedom of Expression in Afghanistan" that freedom of expression and civic space in the country continue to face deliberate and organized pressures and restrictions from the Taliban.

ilaha

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