Why Are Rights Groups Calling for the Release of Afghan Journalist Fatema Hamnawa in Pakistan?
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Synopsis
Human rights groups are rallying for the release of detained Afghan journalist Fatema Hamnawa in Pakistan. Her arrest has raised alarm over the safety of exiled journalists amidst increasing threats. This situation highlights the urgent need for protection of media personnel fleeing persecution.
Key Takeaways
- Human rights groups are calling for the immediate release of Fatema Hamnawa.
- The arrest highlights the dangers faced by Afghan journalists in exile.
- Pakistan's crackdown on Afghan migrants raises serious concerns.
- Deportation of journalists could lead to life-threatening situations.
- Afghan refugees in Pakistan are enduring harsh conditions amid increasing threats.
Kabul, Nov 5 (NationPress) A coalition of human rights organizations is urging the Pakistani government to release Fatema Hamnawa, an Afghan journalist who has been detained along with her children. These groups emphasize the need for Pakistan to honor its pledge to safeguard the rights of exiled reporters and prevent their deportation. An Afghan media watchdog has condemned the detention of Fatema Hamnawa, highlighting the increasing dangers faced by Afghan journalists who have sought refuge abroad, according to local media reports on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Afghanistan's media advocacy group Nai described the arrest and potential deportation of Afghan journalists, particularly women, from Pakistan as a “dangerous and alarming development,” as reported by Afghanistan's leading news agency, Khaama Press.
Nai disclosed that Pakistani law enforcement apprehended Fatema Hamnawa alongside her two children during a crackdown on Afghan migrants. They urged the Pakistani authorities to release Hamnawa immediately and facilitate the renewal of her visa, underscoring that deporting journalists back to Afghanistan could put their lives at grave risk.
Like many Afghan refugees, Fatema Hamnawa was residing in Pakistan on a temporary visa, which lapsed after the Pakistani government ceased visa renewals for Afghan nationals.
Rights advocates have voiced strong criticism regarding Pakistan's recent expulsion of thousands of Afghan refugees, warning that activists and journalists face serious threats if returned to their home country.
Additionally, Reporters Without Borders has condemned the Taliban's ongoing repression of journalists in Afghanistan, asserting that Afghan reporters returning face arbitrary detention and mistreatment. They argue that “the Taliban treat independent reporters as criminals.”
Earlier in October, Afghan refugees expressed their concerns over intensifying challenges and heightened fears due to the current crackdown. They claimed that the Pakistani police have made announcements in various mosques stating that anyone assisting refugees, including those renting homes or shops to them, would be deemed a criminal by the government.
“A significant number of Afghan refugees, including children, women, and the elderly, have been detained in Pakistani facilities for over 15 days, enduring extremely harsh conditions,”
quoted Atiqullah Mansoor, an Afghan refugee in Pakistan, as reported by Afghanistan's prominent media outlet, Tolo News.
Other refugees reported that, in addition to demolishing shelters, the Pakistani government has intensified arrests and forced deportations.
They appealed to the Pakistani government to halt the demolition of their residences and permit them to remain in Pakistan, at least through the winter.
“Winter has already commenced, and many of the remaining homes of Afghan refugees here have been demolished. We urge the Pakistani government to cease the destruction of the remaining homes; otherwise, refugees will be left without shelter and nowhere to go. Furthermore, the government has warned locals against renting homes to Afghan refugees, threatening them with legal repercussions,”
stated another Afghan refugee in Pakistan.
Point of View
Our stance is clear: the safety and rights of journalists must be protected at all costs. The ongoing situation involving Afghan journalist Fatema Hamnawa is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by media personnel in exile. It is imperative that the Pakistani government upholds its commitments to human rights and protects those who have fled persecution.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of Fatema Hamnawa?
Fatema Hamnawa was arrested by Pakistani police amid a crackdown on Afghan migrants, raising concerns about the treatment of journalists in exile.
Why are human rights groups involved?
Human rights groups are advocating for Hamnawa's release and emphasizing the need for Pakistan to protect exiled journalists from deportation.
What risks do journalists face if deported back to Afghanistan?
Deporting journalists to Afghanistan can endanger their lives, as they face the threat of arbitrary detention and mistreatment by the Taliban.
What is the current situation for Afghan refugees in Pakistan?
Afghan refugees in Pakistan are facing increased arrests, forced deportations, and harsh living conditions, with many homes being demolished.
How can the international community help?
The international community can exert pressure on Pakistan to uphold human rights and provide safe haven for journalists and refugees.
