Afghan Journalists in Exile Face Widespread Self-Censorship, Study Reveals

Afghan Journalists in Exile Face Widespread Self-Censorship, Study Reveals
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More than 70 percent of Afghan journalists working in exile regularly engage in self-censorship to safeguard their sources, colleagues, and family members, Amu TV reported based on a new study released by Leipzig University. This pervasive caution, researchers warn, is significantly impacting the depth and integrity of their journalistic output.

The study, presented on Friday by Afghan journalist Hamid Obaidi at the “Scholarship in Diaspora: Unlocking the Potential of Diaspora Scholars – The Case of Afghanistan” conference in Berlin, surveyed 147 Afghan reporters living outside their home country. Of these, 115 are currently employed by exiled media outlets. The research aimed to evaluate how Afghan journalists gather information, manage risks, and sustain their work amidst displacement.

Despite operating geographically distant from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, a striking 97 percent of respondents admitted to concealing sources in sensitive reports, while 90 percent confessed to entirely withholding stories due to safety concerns. Compounding these challenges, only 42 percent expressed satisfaction with the internal support provided by their organizations.

Encrypted messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram have become indispensable tools for information gathering, utilized by 95 percent of the surveyed journalists. Many also rely on social media, diaspora networks, and contacts within Afghanistan to verify details and monitor developments on the ground.

However, a significant gap in digital security persists. Respondents rated their confidence in their own digital safety at a mere 2.8 out of 5, attributing this low score to a lack of access to formal training and resources.

The report, supported by Leipzig University, also highlighted a strong sense of purpose among Afghan reporters abroad. A notable 95 percent of journalists believe their work in exile has successfully drawn global attention to Afghanistan, with their motivation scoring an average of 4.3 out of 5.