By Dr. Zahra Darbandsari
International Affairs Researcher
International Peace Studies Center – IPSC
The media flourished in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021 as a key part of the country’s reconstruction and nation-building efforts. This period, which began with international support, was marked by the enactment of media laws and the expansion of related institutions, paving the way for media freedoms and unprecedented growth in the Afghan media landscape. Starting in 2002, media outlets, supported by international organizations, began operating and played a significant role in raising awareness and fostering social development.
One of the major milestones of this era was the adoption of Afghanistan’s constitution in 2004, which recognised media freedom. This constitution allowed media to operate freely across social, political, and economic domains. The establishment of regulatory bodies such as the High Media Council and the Mass Media Commission helped strengthen the legal framework for media. By 2021, Afghanistan had become one of the region’s leaders in media freedom, with media playing a prominent role in public awareness. Afghan media grew rapidly, expanding from a handful of radio and TV stations to thousands of outlets. Television and radio became trusted news sources, and social media emerged as a powerful tool for information dissemination.
The Taliban’s Return to Power and New Restrictions
With the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in the summer of 2021, major changes occurred in the media landscape. Many media outlets were shut down, and the Taliban immediately imposed bans on foreign TV programs and films. One of the most significant challenges of this period was the severe restriction on women’s participation in media. Women, who had previously held prominent roles in the media, saw their presence drastically reduced under Taliban rule. These measures led to the suppression of the media community and threatened media freedoms. Many journalists and reporters faced pressure or were forced to leave the country, creating a crisis in the journalism profession.
The Legal Framework of Media Under the Taliban
After the Taliban’s takeover, media laws underwent major changes. The Taliban introduced new regulations that impacted published content, including bans on depicting living beings and an emphasis on adhering to Sharia principles. These changes raised concerns among media professionals and led to increased unemployment among journalists. The suppression of media resulted in self-censorship, with outlets becoming cautious, especially when covering sensitive topics. While Taliban officials claim that around 370 media outlets are currently active in Afghanistan, international reports indicate that Afghanistan remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists. The Afghan Journalists Center (AFJC) has reported a sharp increase in media restrictions, with outlets unable to reflect societal realities.
The Future Outlook for Media in Afghanistan
The future of media in Afghanistan remains uncertain under the Taliban’s restrictive policies. The Taliban are attempting to “Talibanize” the intellectual space by creating aligned media networks, but these efforts could fuel internal discord. Human rights organisations are calling for the restoration of media freedom. The Taliban’s use of social media as a propaganda tool reflects their efforts to control media and advance their political agenda. This approach could negatively impact Afghanistan’s social reconstruction. Overall, the severe restrictions and suppression of media activities signify a significant regression in media freedom, casting a shadow over the future of both Afghan media and society.