CPJ Calls for Reversal of Taliban’s Decision To Restrict Facebook

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) expressed concern on Monday regarding the Taliban's decision to limit or block Facebook in Afghanistan.

The committee urged Taliban authorities not to impede the free flow of information.

Najibullah Haqqani, the Taliban’s Minister of Telecommunications and Technology, announced on Sunday that the ministry has finalised plans to restrict or completely shut down certain social media networks, including Facebook.

He cited the reason for this action as "preventing young people from spending time and money" and being exposed to immoral issues.

In reaction to the Taliban’s decision, CPJ stated that the group has arrested journalists, shut down news websites and restricted access to foreign media outlets since the beginning of their takeover.

Beh Lih Yi, CPS’ Asia Programme Coordinator said, “The Taliban’s plan to restrict or block access to Facebook would be a further blow to freedom of information in Afghanistan.”

She added that social media platforms, including Facebook, have filled the void left by the decline of media industry in Afghanistan and the crackdown on press freedom, but the proposed ban would worsen the situation of media censorship by the Taliban.

Taliban spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid told CPJ that Facebook will not be banned, but restrictions will be imposed on it.