ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan’s interim Ministry of Information and Culture on Monday revoked the licenses of media support organizations that were not compliant due to “unprofessionalism,” the ministry said in a statement.

Following a review of organizations claiming to support media outlets and journalists, the ministry said it discovered that some journalists have been operating in an “unprofessional” manner and, instead of resolving issues, have “created additional challenges.”

The ministry decided to “extend the licenses of only three institutions nationwide and revoke the licenses of the remaining institutions.”

“The decision will … ensure the rights of journalists and the media, and prevent abuse in the name of journalists and the media,” which, according to the statement, will make the “activities of the institutions more effective and organized, and their trust will be maintained.”

Since the Taliban’s arrival in Afghanistan, media houses and journalists have borne the heaviest brunt through restrictions and closures.

According to Human Rights Watch, “The Taliban have gutted Afghan media since taking control of the country in August 2021 through the use of surveillance and censorship and by punishing media workers for perceived criticism.”

The organization noted that Afghan journalists in exile, who fled Taliban persecution, now face “increasing threats of forced return to Afghanistan,” where they fear retaliation.

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Afghanistan revokes licenses of media, journalists due to ‘unprofessionalism’