‘Afghan govt did nothing to address journalists’ concerns

Monitoring Desk

KABUL: Journalists and media activists complain the government has taken no practical steps to address challenges the journalist community face.

They say the government has just been making promises and despite legislation, practical work has been missing to improve the situation of media workers in the country.

March 18 is celebrated as Journalist Day in the country over the past few years and marking the day on Sunday here the journalists expressed their concern about increasing threats to media activists.

Parwana Bahar, a reporter with a private television in Kabul, listed insecurity, lack of access to information, authorities’ refusal to appear on time or respond in time as major challenges journalists were faced with.

She added access to information and job security were crucial demands of journalists.

“I am found of my profession, I want to inform the world from whatever happens in the country, I will face all challenges and would never bow to any threat,” she vowed.

Ahmad Patyal, another journalist, said: “There are many challenges, but generally disrespect by high authorities, security personnel and low salaries are major challenges.”

He also asked the government to work for security, timely payment of salaries by media owners and access to information.

Hussain Sancharaki, deputy information and cultural minister for publication affairs, acknowledged journalists faced some issues, including lack of access to information.

He said the access to information law had been reviewed last month and some amendments were approved.