The Taliban government in Afghanistan has suspended the country's only women-led radio station, Radio Begum, following a raid on its premises on Tuesday. A Kabul-based radio station produced women’s education content and was run by women primarily.
During the raid, the officials confiscated computers, hard drives and mobile phones from the staff, including female journalists. Two male employees were also taken into custody as they did not have any senior management roles to play.
The Information and Cultural Ministry of Taliban confirmed the suspension, accusing the radio station of violating its “broadcasting policy and improper use of the station’s licence.”
The argument also includes “the unauthorised provision of content and programming to a foreign-based television channel.” While the ministry did not reveal the identity of the foreign network, it stated that Radio Begum’s fate would be decided "in due course."
Radio Begum was launched on International Women’s Day in March 2021, just five months before the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces. The station emphasised that its sole mission is to offer education and support to Afghan women and girls, denying any involvement in political activities.
At least 12 public and private media outlets were shut down by the Taliban in 2024, according to the Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Besides, the public broadcast of women’s voices, which includes singing, reciting, or reading aloud, has been banned in the country. This has led to further marginalisation of Afghan women, curbing their access to education.