RASC News Agency: A recent investigation by a journalists’ advocacy organization underscores the Taliban’s systematic refusal to engage with female journalists, driven by concerns over potential exposure of sensitive truths and entrenched gender discrimination. The study, titled “The Struggles of Female Journalists in Afghanistan: Assessing Access to Information in 2024,” reveals that the Taliban consistently decline interviews and refuse to share information with female journalists. Based on a survey of 102 Afghanistani female journalists 80% of whom currently reside in Afghanistan the findings present a concerning picture. According to the data, 37% of respondents identified gender-based discrimination as the primary reason for the Taliban’s non-cooperation, while 33% attributed it to the Taliban’s fear of exposing damaging truths.
Additionally, 58% of female journalists reported that when denied access to news, they lacked alternative sources for obtaining critical information. Another 30% sought assistance from media-support organizations, although 58% of respondents found these organizations ineffective in addressing their needs. The research also highlights the nature of information sources available to women journalists. It shows that 40% of female reporters rely on non-Taliban sources for news, while only 7% depend on Taliban-linked contacts.
This study aligns with previous reports by the organization, which have indicated that the Taliban remain steadfast in their refusal to engage with female journalists, systematically restricting their access to critical information and undermining their ability to perform their professional duties effectively. The findings further emphasize the Taliban’s calculated efforts to silence female voices in the media, exacerbating the already challenging environment for journalists in Afghanistan.
