AIP Wire Report, New York.
Three international press freedom organizations — Reporters Without Borders, Committee to Protect Journalists, and Free Press Unlimited — have raised alarm over the alleged harassment, arrests, and deportations of Afghan journalists living in Pakistan.
In a letter dated March 13, 2026, addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the organizations said the situation has intensified amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. They reported that around 20 cases of arrests have been documented since the start of the year, while at least nine journalists have been deported, including six in the past two weeks.
The groups warned that deported journalists could face serious risks under the current Taliban authorities, including retaliation and detention. They urged the Pakistani government to halt deportations, release detained journalists, and ensure protections for those awaiting resettlement.
Pakistan’s government has not issued an immediate response to the letter. However, officials have previously stated that actions taken against foreign nationals are conducted in accordance with national laws and security considerations.
