In 2024, the world is facing one crisis after another. A war in Gaza and Ukraine, disastrous floods and heat waves, the erosion of democracy. Journalism matters now more than ever.
Journalism leads to action, which leads to solutions. Journalism gives power to people to lead informed lives, no matter where they are.
To do this work, journalists must be on the ground bearing witness to the unforgivable, holding those in power to account, giving a voice to those silenced.
In a digital age and amongst the rise of global authoritarianism, the media industry is struggling for survival.
Collective action is urgently needed to reaffirm the value of journalism and gain support for independent media around the world.
Afghanistan’s media is fighting against overwhelming odds. The majority of media organizations are operating in exile. Their business models – largely reliant on international donor-funding – have been destroyed since the Taliban takeover.
Afghan media outlets and organizations are researching ways to create sustainable business models. However, international grants, crowdfunding and direct donations will be crucial for their survival in the short to medium term. The support of readers and global audiences will determine the feasibility of the media’s future.
In addition to an unsustainable business landscape, the dangers facing Afghanistan and journalists across the globe are rising. Last year was the most dangerous to be a reporter since 2015. There were 99 killings of reporters in 2023, the highest toll in eight years. Female reporters are particularly vulnerable, with restrictions on their right to work, intimidation from authorities and increasing abuse on digital platforms.
In the RSF press freedom index, Afghanistan is rated the 3rd worst country in the world. In the space of three months after the Taliban takeover in August 2021, nearly half of Afghan media outlets disappeared.
Taliban censorship and restrictions on the remaining media outlets in Afghanistan continues to grow. Criticism of the de facto government is forbidden, as well as subjects such as religion and the status of women, minorities and human rights.
The General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) and Taliban security forces arrest journalists arbitrarily. There have been reports of journalists tortured for several months. Those working with foreign media or organizations in exile are specifically targeted. In 2023, Franco-Afghan journalist Mortaza Behboudi was detained for nine months.
Over three years, 80 journalists have been detained in Afghanistan. Three journalists were imprisoned for endangering the country’s security. 30 journalists have been victims of violence by security forces whilst on assignment.
The only way for Afghans to access independent news reporting is online.
Hasht-e Subh Daily is one of the few independent Afghanistan media outlets working in exile. Our publication continues to investigate and report the issues of Afghanistan through the help of citizen journalism and anonymous sources. Our award-winning reporting reaches audiences across the world on digital platforms.
Nevertheless, we need your support.
If Afghan journalists cease to exist, the Taliban will continue to be held unaccountable for the repression of millions of Afghan lives. Afghanistan needs independent journalism to create informed and engaged societies, capable of standing up and having their voices heard.
Your support in the work of Hasht-e Subh Daily and its allies is an investment in press freedom and the future of a free and informed Afghanistan.
World News Day 2024 is for never forgetting why journalists exist in the first place. Celebrate the work of journalists today and support the future of journalism. The future of democracy.
