The Afghanistan Media Support Organisation (AMSO) has expressed concern over the deteriorating conditions faced by Afghan journalists awaiting humanitarian visas in Pakistan and Iran. Many journalists, who left Afghanistan due to security threats, now risk deportation while waiting for relocation, leading to psychological and physical strain. AMSO has urged Brazilian authorities to expedite visa processing and provide clear relocation updates to alleviate the journalists’ plight.
AMSO highlighted the uncertain legal status and livelihoods of Afghan journalists residing in neighboring countries like Pakistan and Iran. The organization, along with international rights groups, emphasized the urgent need for swift relocation efforts to shield journalists from ongoing security risks and uncertainty abroad.
Recently, AMSO reported that five Afghan journalists were detained by Pakistani authorities, including journalist Samim Forough Faizi and cameraman Ataullah Shirzad. Although the journalists have been released, AMSO raised concerns about arbitrary detentions and insecurity that continue to threaten Afghan reporters in Pakistan.
The situation for Afghan journalists and their families in Pakistan remains precarious due to visa extensions not being granted by Islamabad, leading to uncertain conditions. Rights groups have cautioned that stringent immigration policies and increasing deportations are exacerbating the challenges faced by Afghan journalists seeking safety and resettlement abroad. AMSO has called on international media and human rights organizations to provide enhanced support to Afghan journalists grappling with insecurity and legal issues in Pakistan.
