Today: 22 August 2025
20 October 2023
2 mins read

UNAMA Calls on Taliban to End Arbitrary Detentions of Journalists

Concerning trends have emerged over the past two years regarding the regular detention of journalists by Taliban officials in several areas….reports Asian Lite News

The United Nations Assistance Mission (UNAMA) has called on the Taliban to stop arbitrarily detaining journalists in Afghanistan, according to Khaama Press.

Concerning trends have emerged over the past two years regarding the regular detention of journalists by Taliban officials in several areas.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, vehemently denounces this practice, citing it as capricious and posing a serious risk to press freedom in the Taliban-ruled country.

The essential function of a free and independent media in any democratic society is undermined by these detentions, which also violate the fundamental rights of journalists, the mission has time and again, reiterated, according to Khaama Press.

French-Afghan journalist Mortaza Behboudi was, recently released from prison on October 18 after 284 days in Taliban custody. Since his imprisonment, two days after he entered Afghanistan in January 2023, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has never stopped defending him from the Taliban authorities.

According to Khaama Press, Behboudi was freed from Pul-e-Charkhi prison. He was captured in January of this year.

According to Reporters Without Borders, Behboudi has been cleared of all allegations, including “espionage,” “unlawful support for foreigners,” and aiding people in escaping borders, by the Taliban government.

Earlier in April, journalists in Afghanistan once again denounced the lack of access to information under the Taliban regime in the country and said that it results in their loss of timely coverage.

They also said that the de-facto authorities are not cooperating with them in any manner.

Lack of access to information has been one of the main challenges for journalists in Afghanistan since the Taliban took control of the country in August 2021.

The ever-increasing restrictions against media in Afghanistan have also drawn widespread criticism globally with the United Nations (UN) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) decrying the arrests, demanding the Taliban stop harassing local journalists and stifling freedom of speech through continued detentions and threats.

Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan in mid-August last year, it rolled back women’s rights advances and media freedom revoking the efforts on gender equality and freedom of speech in the country. (ANI)

ALSO READ: Taliban to Join China’s BRI Forum

Previous Story

Stay Alert, US Tells Citizens Abroad

Next Story

Modi dials Palestinian President, vows aid

Latest from -Top News

US sanctions more ICC judges

Washington hits at The Hague with fresh sanctions on four ICC judges and prosecutors, including French and Canadian officials, over probes targeting Israel and US actions abroad….reports Asian Lite News The United

UAE Wows Osaka!

The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka celebrates its three millionth visitor, blending culture, innovation, and hospitality in an immersive showcase of heritage, sustainability, and forward-looking global vision….reports Asian Lite News The

MBS & Sisi talk ties, Palestine

The two leaders reviewed the historic and strategic relations between Riyadh and Cairo and explored new ways to bolster cooperation…reports Asian Lite News Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister HRH Mohammed bin

Dubai’s startup supernova

Marking its 10th year, Expand North Star cements Dubai’s role as a global hub for digital innovation, uniting startups, unicorns, and investors to shape the future economy….reports Asian Lite News Expand North

Qatar: Syria’s stability key to region

Qatar, speaking for the Arab Group at the UN, urged unity and sovereignty for Syria as regional diplomacy, UN warnings, and fragile ceasefires highlight a precarious crossroads….reports Asian Lite News Qatar, speaking
Go toTop

Don't Miss

IOM raises alarm over millions of displaced Afghans

The Ministry said that it has launched a nationwide distribution

UN needs $220 million per month to feed Afghans: WFP

An estimated 98 per cent of Afghans are not consuming