Afghanistan Times
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AT News Report-KABUL: On the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists on 2 November the European Union (EU) expresses its deep concerns over the high levels of violence against journalists in Afghanistan, EU said in a statement.
According to Afghanistan Journalists Safety Committee first six months report of 2017, during this period a total of 73 cases of violence against journalists have been recorded which includes 10 cases of murder.
“High level of violence and threats against journalists in Afghanistan is deeply worrying. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right of the Afghan people and a cornerstone for a democracy. It must be respected by all parties. I call on the Government of Afghanistan to follow up thoroughly on each case of violence against journalists and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. There cannot be impunity. A safe working environment for all those working in the media must be ensured” said the EU Head of Delegation to Afghanistan, Ambassador Pierre Mayaudon.
The people of Afghanistan have enjoyed a high level of freedom of the press and expression in the past decade. These achievements need to be protected and respected, the statement said, adding, the EU reiterates its continued support for strengthening journalists and media workers security and freedom of expression in Afghanistan.
It furthered, the EU also expects the Afghan government to deliver on its commitments to take concerted actions to ensure people’s liberty of expression as well as freedom of the media including social media as agreed in the 3rd EU-Afghanistan Human Rights Meeting held on 14 August 2017.
