Urgent Appeal Regarding the Detention of Afghan Journalists in Pakistan
Urgent Appeal Regarding the Detention of Afghan Journalists in Pakistan
The Federation of Afghan Journalists in Pakistan expresses its deep concern over the arrest and detention of two Afghan journalists Nasir Ahmad Behroz and Zaki Sapai by authorities in Islamabad, Pakistan. According to our information, both individuals have been transferred to Haji Camp, a facility typically used to detain individuals prior to deportation.
Behroz and Sapai, like many others, fled Afghanistan following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. They are among approximately 150 Afghan journalists currently living in Pakistan, many of whom possess valid documentation or are in the process of legalizing their status. Despite this, they continue to face detention and the looming threat of forced return to Afghanistan, where they would be at serious risk of persecution.
A key contributing factor to the challenges Afghan journalists face in Pakistan is the delayed and complicated visa extension process overseen by the Ministry of Interior. With visas requiring monthly renewal, many journalists struggle to meet the financial and administrative burdens. As a result, they are left in a state of legal uncertainty, making them highly vulnerable to arrest and deportation.
The Federation of Afghan Journalists in Pakistan respectfully urges Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mr. Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and the Government of Pakistan to:
- Resolve administrative delays and ensure timely visa extensions for Afghan journalists residing in Pakistan;
- Cease the arrest and deportation of Afghan journalists who hold legal status or have pending applications;
- Recognize the critical role these journalists have played in defending freedom of expression and democracy, both in Afghanistan and in exile.
These journalists are not criminals; they are truth-tellers and defenders of freedom who were forced to flee their homeland to survive. Their continued persecution in host countries contradicts international commitments to uphold freedom of expression and protect refugee rights.
The Federation of Afghan Journalists in Pakistan calls on the United Nations Office and all international organizations supporting journalists to defend their rights and safety, and to prevent any actions that may further endanger their lives
