Several Afghan journalists who sought refuge in Turkey following the Taliban takeover of the country are now facing the threat of deportation, the Free Speech Hub said in a statement on Monday.
The organization held a meeting with over 30 Afghan journalists residing in Turkey on Monday, who shared “heartbreaking stories” about the challenges they face daily, according to the statement.
The journalists expressed their profound fear of returning to Afghanistan, stating that they would encounter harassment and persecution if deported, the statement said. The journalists are experiencing ‘significant’ economic challenges and, lacking legal residency permits, have turned to low-paying and ‘exploitative’ work in the construction and textile industries.
The journalists are seeking to be relocated to third countries, including the United States, Canada, and Germany, so they can safely resume their work and contribute to society, the statement said.
The Free Speech Hub has urged the Afghan embassy in Turkey and the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs to extend their residency permits.
The Hub said it stands with these journalists and is committed to finding solutions to address their immediate concerns.
Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, many journalists have fled the country and sought refuge in various countries, including Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey.
