Women Journalists Banned from Afghan FM’s Press Conference: A Reflection of Taliban’s Misogyny
In a controversial turn of events during his six-day visit to India, Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has ignited outrage by enforcing a ban on female journalists from attending his press conference in New Delhi. This incident followed his meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and has drawn significant ire from journalists and rights activists alike.
The decision to exclude women from the press conference has been condemned as a glaring example of the Taliban’s entrenched misogyny—a striking reminder of the oppressive gender norms that have become emblematic of their rule since the group regained control over Afghanistan in 2021. Many view this exclusion not merely as a breach of press freedom but as a manifestation of broader systemic gender discrimination that persists under Taliban governance.
Critics argue that the Taliban’s actions are indicative of a troubling trend: a deliberate undermining of women’s rights and representation in a society that has historically silenced female voices. As newsrooms globally strive for gender equality and inclusivity, the exclusion of women journalists from such significant events highlights a concerning regression.
The global community, including media watchdogs and human rights organizations, have rallied in condemnation of the ban. The outcry reflects a growing resolve to hold the Taliban accountable for their policies that restrict women’s rights, particularly in professions such as journalism, where women’s contributions are vital for balanced and diverse reporting.
India, as a regional leader, has faced scrutiny regarding its response to the Taliban’s policies, and the press conference incident has intensified calls for a more robust diplomatic engagement that prioritizes human rights, especially for women and marginalized groups in Afghanistan.
As the world watches, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of women’s rights in Afghanistan and underscores the importance of solidarity within the global media community in advocating for press freedom and gender equality. The repercussions of this incident extend far beyond the confines of a single press conference; they resonate with the ongoing struggle for female representation and rights worldwide.
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Video “Why were Women Journalists banned in Afghanistan FM's Press conference? MEA clarifies” was uploaded on 10/11/2025 to Youtube Channel The Free Press Journal