The 2024 Canada-U.K. Media Freedom Award has been presented today to independent Afghan journalists and media organizations for their courageous reporting despite restrictions imposed by the Taliban.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, and H.E. Lord Collins of Highbury, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Africa) of the United Kingdom, presented the award to Lotfullah Najafizada, CEO of Amu TV, on behalf of his fellow independent Afghan journalists and media organizations.
This award signals the enduring commitment of both Canada and the United Kingdom to support free and independent journalism.
Every day, independent Afghan journalists and media organizations continue to offer a platform for uncensored information and hope in Afghanistan in the face of the severe repression brought by the Taliban since August 2021.
Independent reporters and media organizations navigate the risks posed by the Taliban’s harsh crackdown on journalism, working bravely to ensure the continuation of free press in a difficult climate. They report on significant issues affecting Afghanistan under Taliban rule, including human rights violations and the plight of women and girls, including forced marriages and bans on education.
Established in 2020, the Canada-U.K. Media Freedom award recognises those who have championed freedom of speech and democracy.
Egyptian online newspaper Mada Masr won the award in 2023. Vietnamese journalist Pham Doan Trang was named as winner in 2022, and the 2020 winner was the Belarusian Association of Journalists.
The announcement of the 2024 award comes during the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week.
The Media Freedom Coalition, which the U.K. and Canada co-founded and now has more than 50 members, celebrated its fifth anniversary during the week’s activities.
Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada said:
"We commend the independent Afghan journalists and media organizations who are working courageously and tirelessly to bring the world up-to-date information and thoughtful, expert analysis about what is happening in Afghanistan under Taliban rule."
"Media freedom remains essential to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms around the world. These independent journalists and media organizations are giving a voice to people whose voices are being silenced. Canada will continue to support them, together with our partners."
Lord Collins of Highbury, UK Minister for Africa said:
"Despite the many restrictions they work under, these brave Afghan journalists have found innovative ways to get accurate, timely and valuable information to the people of Afghanistan, including on the plight of women and girls. They play a vital role in preserving the truth. The U.K. remains committed to media freedom, and to championing human rights and democracy around the world."
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