RASC News Agency: The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) observed that imagining a world without radio poses a challenge, coinciding with World Radio Day. UNAMA conveyed this message on Tuesday, February 13th, via a post on its social media platform X, in observance of World Radio Day. UNAMA reports that currently, 150 radio networks operate under Taliban control in Afghanistan, underlining the organization’s support for the right to access information and freedom of expression in the country.
UNAMA emphasized, “We commemorate this day to underscore the power of radio, which promotes unity and progress throughout Afghanistan. UNAMA and the wider United Nations family stand as champions for the Afghanistani people’s right to information and freedom of expression.” The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also reflected on World Radio Day last year, stating: “Radio reaches over 80% of Afghanistan’s population and is considered the most essential medium, particularly in remote areas where literacy rates, especially among women, are lower.”
World Radio Day unfolds in Afghanistan amidst the Taliban’s extensive violations of freedom of expression and imposition of numerous restrictions on media operations and activities. Furthermore, several highly regarded radio stations have ceased operations due to financial losses, censorship, and coercive Taliban restrictions, leaving their employees in a state of uncertainty.
