Reporters Without Borders (RSF) says the Taliban have imposed widespread restrictions on media freedom and journalists’ activities since taking control of Afghanistan, issuing more than 20 directives and orders.
The organization said in a report on Monday, August 10, that criticism of the Taliban has been banned, extensive restrictions have been imposed on women journalists, space for political debate and discussion has been limited, and the broadcasting of images of living beings has also been prohibited.
According to the report, in January 2026, the Taliban secretly implemented a new “Criminal Procedure Code” in courts. Details of the code were published after a copy was leaked.
The code does not directly mention the media, but it does not exempt journalists and media workers from its provisions, leaving them exposed to legal threats and severe punishments, including imprisonment.
Under the new code, insulting the Taliban leadership is punishable by six months in prison and 20 lashes, while insulting the Taliban’s supreme leader is punishable by one year in prison and 39 lashes.
Contacting opponents of the government and failing to report such contacts are also considered criminal offences.
