KABUL - On World Press Freedom Day UNAMA commends the work of Afghan media acknowledging the dedication and professionalism of Afghan journalists and media workers throughout the country as well as personal risks taken during difficult years of conflict. Print English

One of this year’s themes for World Press Freedom Day is on New Voices: Media Freedom Helping to Transform Societies. Media freedom is at the heart of a healthy society that believes in debate and discussion in order to involve the public in political and economic development. Media have an important role in influencing the public narrative, holding governments to account and giving a voice to the people.

While conflict continues in Afghanistan, UNAMA wishes to draw attention to the United Nations Security Council resolution 1738 which condemns intentional attacks against journalists and media professionals in situations of armed conflict. It regards journalists reporting in conflict as civilians. It urges states and all other parties to an armed conflict to do their utmost to prevent violations of international humanitarian law against civilians, including journalists, media professionals and associated personnel.

UNAMA supports efforts to protect and promote human rights for all Afghans, for which a free, independent and pluralistic media is essential, and expresses concern at the continued restrictions on freedom of media, and attacks against journalists.