The media of Afghanistan: The challenges of transition. Policy Briefing No. 5

Abstract

The media of Afghanistan, like all other sections of Afghanistan society, is undergoing transition. This briefing examines what transition might mean for a sector that has the potential to shape Afghan opinion and hold government to account but now faces considerable uncertainty. It comprises 6 parts: Part 1 provides a brief overview of how Afghanistan’s media landscape has been transformed over the past decade. Part 2 examines the effects of this transformation on Afghanistan’s culture and politics as media reflect the struggle between tradition and modernity. Part 3 looks at the status and pressures facing journalism in the country. Part 4 examines the role of donors in support to the Afghan media and the implications of a reduction in such support. Part 5 examines the shortage of independent national media and the challenges faced by Radio Television Afghanistan (RTA). Part 6 looks to the future and provides some conclusions drawn from the analysis