Editor in Chief: Moh. Reza Huwaida Thursday, March 28th, 2024

UN, Canada Support Free Afghan Media

UN, Canada Support Free Afghan Media

KABUL - The UN and Canada on Thursday commended the work of Afghan media, acknowledging its dedication and professionalism throughout the country, as well as personal risks taken during difficult years of conflict.
Media freedom was at the heart of a healthy society that believed in debate to involve the public in political and economic development, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said.

In a statement on World Press Freedom Day, a statement from UNAMA said media had an important role in influencing the public narrative, holding governments to account and giving a voice to the people.

"While conflict continues in Afghanistan, UNAMA wishes to draw attention to the UN Security Council resolution 1738 which condemns intentional attacks against journalists and media professionals in situations of armed conflict…

The resolution, regarding journalists reporting in conflict as civilians, urges states and other parties to an armed conflict to do their utmost to prevent violations of international humanitarian law against civilians, including journalists, media professionals and associated personnel.

While supporting efforts to protect and promote human rights for all Afghans, the UN mission expresses concern at the continued restrictions on the freedom of media and attacks against journalists.

"We will continue to work with our Afghan partners … to maintain a media environment free of censorship, intimidation and interference," Canada's Chargé d'affaires in Kabul said.

In a statement, Shelley Whiting said: "On behalf of the government of Canada, I would like to join all those who celebrate the courageous work of those Afghan men and women who risk their lives and their liberty every day to make the truth known."

She said Wednesday's cowardly attack on the Green Village compound in Kabul demonstrated that Afghan journalists were working in a challenging environment and assumed great personal risks to report the news.