Seven FM radio stations from across the country have closed down due to security threats or financial problems, said Nai (Supporting Open Media in Afghanistan) on Thursday.
The organization urged the government and international community to support media organizations and journalists.
On the eve of World Radio Day, Nai expressed its deep concerns over challenges faced by radio stations in Afghanistan.
“According to our information, there are 175 radio stations in Afghanistan. Seven of these radio stations, over the past few years, have closed down for different reasons,” said Sediqullah Tawhidi, director of Nai.
Based on a survey conducted by Nai, most of the radio stations have termed security threats and financial problems as the main reason for their closure.
Lack of female and professional workers and a lack of access to information were listed as other problems faced by radio stations in Afghanistan.
“Radio stations in Afghanistan are active in different parts of the country. They are active in dangerous areas and in remote provinces. Their activities are very effective in both raising awareness and giving information,” said Tawhidi. He added that radio stations in Afghanistan will face severe challenges, if they are not supported.
The Ministry of Information and Culture (MoIC) confirmed that radio stations in Afghanistan are faced with numerous challenges. However, it said efforts are underway to solve the problems faced by journalists.
Haroon Hakimi, spokesman for the (MoIC), said that the ministry and government are committed to support media organizations and journalists.
This comes at a time that Afghanistan is considered as one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists.http://www.tolonews.com/en/afghanistan/23735-seven-radio-stations-go-off-air-nai
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