Taliban issued over 20 directives to restrict press freedom in Afghanistan

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) reports that the Taliban has systematically used legal and regulatory frameworks to suppress press freedom in Afghanistan over the last five years. Since the 2021 takeover, the group has issued more than 20 nationwide directives and various provincial orders to control media content, terminology, and the participation of women in broadcasting.

According to RSF, these restrictions have targeted the criticism of officials, the rebroadcasting of international media, live political programming, and the selection of experts. Specific measures include requirements for female presenters to cover their faces and restrictions on women’s voices in radio and public information programs.

The report highlights a shift from administrative and verbal instructions toward a formal legal framework, specifically citing the January 2026 Criminal Procedure Regulation of the Courts. RSF warns that this regulation, drafted without public consultation, provides judges with broad powers to suppress dissenting views and could potentially be used to punish journalists or compel them to reveal confidential sources.