The Rising Voice of Afghan Women Journalists: A Glimmer of Hope Against Oppression
Golali Karimi, an Afghan journalist, experienced a drastic change in her life after the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, leading her to flee to France. She now works at Begum TV, which serves thousands of Afghan women by providing educational content and promoting cultural discussions. Despite the ongoing oppressive circumstances in Afghanistan, the efforts of Karimi and her colleague Saira Akakhil illustrate a steadfast commitment to advocacy and the importance of women’s voices.
In August 2021, Afghan television presenter Golali Karimi’s life drastically changed when the Taliban seized her studio. “They took our security guards, broke into our building and rushed on set. I knew then, the Taliban had taken Kabul.” After being threatened, she fled to France and began anew, taking various jobs before achieving a role at Begum TV, where she could return to journalism and support Afghan women.
Launched on International Women’s Day in March 2024, Begum TV provides educational and entertainment content for Afghan women, reaching thousands in Afghanistan. The programming, offered in Dari and Pashto, includes poetry, cultural discussions, and vital health information. Furthermore, the channel has digitalized the Afghan school curriculum, allowing girls to continue their education despite official restrictions.
Karimi, who now hosts various shows, highlighted the connection viewers maintain with education, stating, “They phone in and ask questions about their classes all the time.” During a visit to the Paris studios, the contrast between the vibrant atmosphere there and the restrictive situation in Afghanistan was stark, which Karimi emphasized by noting her need to wear a mask in public due to ongoing threats.
Her colleague, Saira Akakhil, also underscores the dangers faced by journalists in Afghanistan. “Every time the phone rings, I fear the worst. I am absolutely terrified to pick up,” she remarked. The media landscape has suffered dramatically since the Taliban’s return, with many journalists enduring intimidation and violence as evidenced by the United Nations’ reports of 336 attacks on media personnel since August 2021.
In February, the Taliban raided Radio Begum, one of the last female-led stations in Afghanistan. This event highlights the perilous environment for women in media and the broader repression they face. Begum TV’s reach to over 20 million Afghan women presents a direct challenge to the Taliban’s authoritarian rule, showing its perceived threat to their power.
Akakhil expressed her determination, despite fear, saying, “I am in love with this job. My people need this programme. I am the voice of Afghan women. I can’t stop. I won’t stop.” Despite ongoing atrocities against women in Afghanistan, the resolute women of Begum TV continue to fight for their rights and visibility, fueled by their commitment to their audience and the impact of their work.
The Taliban’s enduring hostility towards women has manifested in increasingly oppressive policies, including banning education and public participation in cultural activities. Yet, the resolve of women like Karimi and Akakhil shines as a beacon of hope amidst darkness, showcasing their refusal to concede to tyranny.
Though the challenges are monumental, the spirit and resilience of these Afghan journalists remain unbroken, as they work tirelessly to advocate for the rights of women back home and to inspire future generations.
In summary, the experiences of Golali Karimi and Saira Akakhil exemplify the struggles faced by women journalists in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. The launch of Begum TV represents a vital resource for Afghan women, promoting education and cultural engagement despite the oppressive environment. The ongoing threats against those working in media only highlight their bravery and dedication to being the voice of women in Afghanistan. Ultimately, these courageous women embody hope, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of rights in the face of adversity.
Original Source: www.indexoncensorship.org
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