05/06/2026
X Space Discussion – World Press Freedom Day (Dialogue Hub #5)
A multi-stakeholder X Space was organized on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day (3 May) by Dialogue Hub, EUHope e.V., Women’s Justice Movement, EVE, and the Self-Organized Afghan Women’s Movement, bringing together journalists, media experts, and human rights defenders from inside and outside Afghanistan.
Key Takeaways:
* Afghanistan’s media sector is facing a severe crisis of censorship, fear, and institutional collapse
* Around 40–50% of media outlets have shut down since 2021 (UNESCO data)
* At least five journalists are currently in detention:
Bashir Hatif, Shakib Ahmad Nazari, Abu Zar Sarpali, Wahid Farhadi, Aziz Watandost
* Women journalists are disproportionately affected, with severe restrictions on work and visibility
* The media sector is also suffering from a deep economic crisis, leading to unemployment and forced migration
Call to Action:
Participants emphasized urgent international action for:
* Immediate release of detained journalists
* Protection of journalists at risk
* Sustainable support for independent and women-led media
* Restoration of press freedom and access to information in Afghanistan
The discussion highlighted one clear message:
Without independent media, there is no accountability, no transparency, and no public voice.