The Afghan Times


The Afghan Times is an independent, online news outlet founded in August 2022. Operated primarily by Afghan journalists, the publication focuses on human rights and women's issues. The outlet provides content in Pashto, Dari and English.
Salma Niazi, a 23-year-old journalist from Laghman province, Afghanistan, and Saeedullah Safi established The Afghan Times while in exile in Pakistan. Niazi's decision to enter journalism was motivated by the lack of female representation in the media in her region. Her career began at a local level, but following the Taliban's return to power in 2021, she was forced to flee Afghanistan due to increasing restrictions and threats against female journalists.

Content

The Afghan Times aims to document and challenge the Taliban's restrictions on women by reporting on their impact through a female perspective. The publication features articles on issues like the Taliban ban on women working, their exclusion from education under the repressive Taliban rule, and the everyday struggles of Afghan women. It also covers broader human rights topics and seeks to engage both local and international audiences.
Know Their Stories
The "Know Their Stories" section of The Afghan Times highlights the struggles of Afghan children, focusing on issues such as child labor, education, and healthcare. These stories reveal the daily hardships children face, particularly in conflict zones and regions impacted by poverty. Through personal accounts, the campaign aims to raise awareness and advocate for improved conditions for Afghanistan's younger population.
Open Mic
The Open Mic - podcast by The Afghan Times provides a platform for Afghan women to share their opinions, ideas, and personal stories on various topics. It encourages public participation, offering a space for voices often unheard in mainstream media.
Magazine
The Afghan Times magazine is dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of Afghan women. It focuses on the struggles, achievements, and contributions of women in various aspects of life, including social, political, and cultural spheres. The magazine aims to empower women by addressing issues such as gender equality, education, and leadership, while providing a platform for women to share their experiences and advocate for change within Afghan society.

Challenges

Operating under the Taliban's regime presents significant risks for the journalists of The Afghan Times, especially those still in Afghanistan who can only report in secret. The outlet's reporters use pseudonyms to protect their identities. Despite these dangers, the publication persists in its mission to shed light on the plight of Afghan women and hold the Taliban accountable for their actions. The work of The Afghan Times has garnered international attention and support, highlighting the resilience of Afghan women journalists. Afghan Times Reporter Wins Young Journalist of the Year 2024 by Thomson Foundation.

Current Status

Funded initially by Niazi's personal savings, The Afghan Times seeks sustainable financial support to continue its operations and potentially expand its staff. The publication remains a crucial platform for Afghan women, providing a voice amid widespread censorship and repression. Niazi's ultimate goal is to secure a safe environment where she can continue advocating for Afghan women's rights and ensure their stories are heard globally.