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Taliban Suspends Women’s Radio Station in Afghanistan

Taliban authorities have raided and suspended Radio Begum, a women's radio station in Afghanistan, arresting two employees.

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Taliban Suspends Women’s Radio Station in Afghanistan

The Taliban has suspended Radio Begum, a leading women’s radio station in Kabul, accusing it of “multiple violations.” The suspension follows a raid by the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence and the Ministry of Information and Culture. Two male employees, who did not hold senior management positions, were arrested during the raid. The station has called for their immediate release, fearing for their safety.

Details of the Raid and Alleged Violations

According to Radio Begum, the Taliban authorities seized computers, hard drives, and phones during the raid. The Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture cited the station’s provision of content to a foreign TV station as part of the violations leading to its suspension. The broadcaster firmly denied any involvement in political activities, emphasizing its commitment to serving Afghan women with educational programs and content aimed at empowering women.

Radio Begum’s Impact on Afghan Women

Radio Begum was founded in March 2021, just before the Taliban’s return to power. The station has been a crucial platform for Afghan women, offering programs that cater to their educational and emotional needs, such as book readings, call-in counseling, and more. In addition, the founder, Hamida Aman, launched Begum TV, a satellite channel offering educational content for Afghan girls and women.

Global Reactions and Press Freedom Concerns

The suspension of Radio Begum is part of a broader crackdown on media freedom in Afghanistan. Reporters Without Borders has condemned the ban, calling for its immediate reversal. In 2024, the Taliban had already shut down several media outlets, including Arezo TV. These actions are seen as part of a wider campaign to restrict freedom of speech and press in Afghanistan, particularly concerning women’s rights.

The Taliban’s Broader Restrictions on Women

Since the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021, women in Afghanistan have faced increasing restrictions, including bans on secondary and higher education and a limited presence in public life. Many radio stations have stopped airing female voices, and TV broadcasters now only show women covered except for their eyes and hands.