Journalist Without a Face – Life Without Freedom

Afghanistan’s Fragile Future: A Nation in Crisis

Afghanistan remains gripped by a humanitarian and political crisis, facing mounting challenges that threaten the survival of millions. Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, the country has struggled with economic decline, mass displacement, and severe restrictions on basic rights, particularly for women and journalists.

Despite international aid efforts, over 23 million Afghans require humanitarian assistance, while funding shortages hinder relief operations. The forced deportation of thousands from neighboring countries adds to the growing refugee crisis, pushing many into extreme poverty and uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan finds itself entangled in regional tensions. India has opened diplomatic dialogue with the Taliban, signaling a shift in foreign relations, while Pakistan continues to grapple with border security and migration pressures. The nation’s fragile stability is shaped not only by geopolitics but also by its deteriorating social and economic landscape.

Women and minority communities bear the brunt of oppressive policies. Education for girls beyond primary levels has been systematically dismantled, restricting future opportunities. The UN has described these measures as „gender apartheid,“ emphasizing the need for urgent international intervention.

Environmental concerns also compound Afghanistan’s hardships. The United Nations warns that climate change could soon surpass conflict as the leading driver of displacement and hunger. Severe droughts and erratic weather patterns threaten the livelihoods of farmers, exacerbating food insecurity.

With few avenues for justice, journalists, activists, and former government employees remain under constant threat. The Taliban continues its crackdown on dissenting voices, making survival increasingly uncertain for those who refuse to be silenced.

As Afghanistan teeters on the edge, global attention and decisive action remain crucial. The question is: how much longer can the world afford to look away?

The Silent Struggle: Journalism Under Threat

Journalists across the world face relentless challenges—whether in war zones, under authoritarian restrictions, or even within developed nations. The statistics paint a grim picture, underscoring the dangers confronting those who seek to inform and advocate for truth. Media freedom is not a distant issue; any assault on a journalist is an assault on society itself. To turn away is to turn against the fundamental principles of justice and transparency.

Recently, a letter emerged from a journalist who remains faceless, fearing for his life. His words reflect the desperation of many who live under oppressive regimes, uncertain of their future and the survival of their families. The harsh reality of his predicament raises a crucial question—not of whether intervention is needed, but how support can be extended.

Silence, in such moments, is the greatest enemy. The publication of his plea serves as the first step in shedding light on his struggle and amplifying his voice. The world must recognize the urgency of these situations and acknowledge the responsibility to protect those who stand at the frontline of truth.

Below is his letter, a testament to the dangers journalists face today.

„Dear World,

I am a journalist from Deh Hayat village, Nerkh district, Maidan Wardak province. Since 2017, I have worked in Afghan media, first with the Afghanistan Free Media Support Organization (NAI), later as a reporter for Zemzemeh Radio, and in 2020 as the Director of Broadcasts at Tajalla Radio Television in Maidan Wardak.

As a journalist advocating for democracy and human rights, I have faced severe risks. In 2020, while returning home from work, I was abducted by the Taliban in Dah Afghanan and detained at their military center in Tokark. I endured brutal torture, which left me with a broken arm and deep leg injuries.

After two days, I was released through the intervention of local elders and my family. When I recovered, I resumed my work in Kabul, but the Taliban continued to threaten me, warning that if I were captured again, I would not be released. I sought protection from the provincial governor’s office, which granted me security. However, after the Taliban seized control in August 2021, everything changed.

To escape growing threats, I fled to Iran. Due to visa issues and believing in the Taliban’s promises of amnesty, I returned to Afghanistan. Economic hardships forced me to continue working in media, and I became the Director of Wahdat Voice Radio in Maidan Wardak. However, fearing for my safety, I relocated to Kabul and worked with DHSA Kilid Radio.

Despite changing locations, the threats never stopped. I soon realized that the Taliban’s amnesty was merely a strategy to identify and target individuals. Their intelligence units began arresting journalists, activists, and former government employees. I received death threats, including chilling messages saying, “We will shoot you, and no one will dare to collect your body.” Terrified, I fled to Pakistan.

In July 2022, in Rawalpindi, two motorcyclists attacked me and stabbed me. The incident was widely reported on Afghan and Pakistani social media. After recovering, I moved to Islamabad, but the threats continued.

In early 2024, individuals linked to the Taliban threatened me again in Pakistan. In January 2024, the Taliban raided my home in Noor district, Maidan Wardak, attempting to force my return. They verbally and physically assaulted my father and shut down the school my wife operated for village girls. Now, I fear for the safety of my wife and children.

A relative, formerly the head of the Environmental Protection Department in Ghazni, was shot by the Taliban but survived, though three bullets remain in his body. His ordeal was extensively covered in Afghan media.

I write this today in the hope that my plea will not go unheard. My life remains in grave danger, and I ask the world—those who stand for justice and human rights—to consider my situation and offer any assistance possible.

Truthful writer“

Author`s note: If anyone knows how to help this journalist, please be free to comment bellow.