Afghan Cinema Faces Uncertain Future as Talibans’ Five-Year Closure Continues

Five years after the Taliban’s return, cinemas in Afghanistan remain closed. This ongoing situation has damaged the film industry and left the public dissatisfied.

Cinemas in Afghanistan Remain Closed to the Public

After five years since the Taliban’s resurgence, cinemas across Afghanistan continue to be shut down. Musi Radmanesh, a cinema activist, emphasizes that film is both an educational and entertaining medium.

The Afghan Film Industry Has Suffered Greatly in the Last Five Years

Afghan filmmakers are facing severe challenges. Many independent producers, who previously operated freely, are now unable to continue their work.

The Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture Remains Silent on Cinema Closures

Repeated inquiries for clarification from Khabib Ghafran, spokesperson for the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, have gone unanswered. The ministry has provided no explanation regarding the ongoing closure of cinemas.

Film as a Fundamental Need: Voices from Afghan Filmmakers

Safour Ahankhel, president of the Afghan Filmmakers Association in exile, stated that the public requires entertainment, and the closure of cinemas is unacceptable for society. He pointed out that cinema is a global phenomenon.

The History of Cinema in Afghanistan: From Introduction to Closure

Cinema was first introduced to Afghanistan in 1923 and had significant growth during various regimes, including that of Muhammad Zahir Shah. However, today this industry is in crisis.