Afghan Journalists Facing Dire Economic Struggles Amidst Rising Illness and Fatalities

Afghan journalists are expressing deep concerns over economic hardships and dwindling revenues. Many reporters across various provinces have lost their lives due to lack of financial support and illness. The severe economic situation in media has also driven some to abandon the journalism profession.

Serious Economic Challenges Facing Afghan Journalists

A number of Afghan journalists and media workers have voiced strong complaints about economic difficulties and declining revenues. Fazl Wahid Afkhari, a journalist in Kunar province, reported the dire situation of his colleagues, mentioning that a journalist named Khan-Wali Salarzi succumbed to cancer after failing to receive support. Another journalist, Qudratullah, also struggles to afford his medical treatment due to illness.

In an interview with Radio Free Europe, Afkhari noted that most journalists in Kunar are facing severe economic challenges and have received no support for their medical needs. He stated, “Journalists’ salaries have nearly dropped to zero because local media cannot attract advertisements, which means they cannot pay their reporters.”

Lack of Support and Appeals for Help

This journalist further revealed that they have appealed to the government and media-supporting organizations for assistance in addressing their economic issues, but so far, no help has been forthcoming. Haqbeen, another journalist from Balkh province, echoed similar concerns and called for financial aid for journalists and media outlets.

Concerns about the dire situation faced by journalists have arisen in light of the deaths of two Afghan journalists, Alam Kabiri and Sofia Mohammadzi, from cancer in the past two weeks. Prior to their passing, these journalists had requested financial assistance, yet according to their colleagues, none received adequate support.

Media Support Organizations and Financial Gaps

Various media-supporting organizations, including the Afghan Journalists’ Safety Committee, reported in 2023 that at least seven journalists and media personnel have died from various illnesses. Many of these individuals were in dire need of financial assistance, yet journalists claim they have not received any help.

Radio Free Europe attempted to obtain comments from the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture regarding these issues, but as of this report’s publication, no official response had been received. Nonetheless, the Ministry had previously announced in 2025 that work on establishing a financial support fund for journalists was ongoing.

The lack of funding for media support organizations has also been cited as a significant factor exacerbating journalists’ challenges. Hamed Obidi, head of the Media Support Organization of Afghanistan, previously stated that emergency funding for journalists is essential.

The Afghan Independent Journalists Association reported in 2026 that there are 394 active radio stations in the country, but more than half of their staff work voluntarily and do not receive regular salaries. Furthermore, the Afghan Journalists Center has highlighted the critical situation of independent media, particularly due to reduced advertising revenues and a lack of supportive initiatives from international organizations.