What Are the Dire Conditions Facing Afghan Journalists in Iran and Pakistan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Afghan journalists face severe threats in host countries.
- Many are in legal limbo due to suspended visa processes.
- International organizations are urged to act swiftly.
- The humanitarian crisis is worsening without intervention.
- Safe pathways for asylum seekers are essential.
Kabul, July 23 (NationPress) The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organisation has characterized the situation of Afghan journalists in Iran and Pakistan as “dire” and “disastrous”. They continue to encounter severe challenges such as threats, arbitrary arrests, and lack of essential services.
Many of these journalists, as reported by Afghan news agency Khaama Press, fled Afghanistan due to threats, persecution, and censorship imposed by the Taliban. However, they are now subjected to grave risks to their safety and dignity in their host countries, including forced deportations, arbitrary detentions, and inadequate access to basic services.
In Pakistan, numerous Afghan journalists find themselves in a state of legal uncertainty due to the suspension of visa renewals, leaving them vulnerable to possible police detention and deportation. Similarly, journalists in Iran report facing comparable obstacles, where access to essential services is either restricted or completely denied.
The organisation has urgently called on international bodies to intervene. They requested the United Nations, the European Union, Reporters Without Borders, and Western nations to accelerate asylum processes and provide immediate support, according to the news agency.
This warning comes at a time when crackdowns on Afghan refugees in both Pakistan and Iran are escalating, with many journalists enduring severe economic hardships and lacking adequate protection.
The organisation stressed that the global community's inaction could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. Without prompt intervention, the lives and freedoms of these journalists remain at grave risk.
In May, The Committee to Protect Journalists, alongside PEN International and 13 partner organisations, urged the Pakistani government to cease the arbitrary mass deportation of Afghan journalists and other individuals at risk from Taliban persecution.
In their statement, the organisations expressed concerns regarding Pakistan’s 'Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan' announced on October 3, 2023. Local and international entities, including the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Organization for Migration, have condemned this plan and urged the government to fulfill its international obligations while ensuring protection for at-risk Afghans.
In their joint statement, the organisations called on the international community to establish safe and legal avenues for Afghan journalists, writers, artists, human rights defenders, and other vulnerable individuals seeking refuge from Taliban persecution due to their peaceful expression.