RASC News Agency: The Index of Censorship, a British organization dedicated to the preservation of freedom of speech, has recently announced the nomination of French-Afghanistani journalist Mortaza Behbodi for the prestigious 2023 Freedom of Speech Award.
This announcement was made on October 14th, highlighting the organization’s commitment to defending freedom of expression, particularly in the realm of social media.
The organization commended Behbodi for his unwavering dedication to journalism, which has resulted in the exposure of censorship and threats to freedom of expression. His courageous and influential work has earned him recognition as a deserving candidate for this esteemed award.
Alongside Behbodi, a media outlet focused on women’s issues in Somalia and Indian journalist Mohammad Zubair have also been identified as potential recipients of this accolade.
The Index of Censorship emphasized that their awards program aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the global fight against censorship. It is worth noting that Mortaza Behbodi was apprehended by the Taliban’s intelligence department upon his return to Afghanistan last year, and his current whereabouts remain unknown.
Despite the challenges faced by journalists in Afghanistan, particularly under Taliban rule, the Index of Censorship continues to recognize and celebrate the achievements of influential figures in various sectors, including art and journalism.
The recent political developments in the country have had a detrimental impact on journalists and media outlets, as they have been subjected to censorship and compelled to conform to the Taliban’s directives. In light of these circumstances, the Index of Censorship’s nomination of Mortaza Behbodi for the Freedom of Speech Award serves as a testament to his exceptional contributions to the field of journalism and his unwavering commitment to defending freedom of expression.
