Alexandre Carette, the head of the UNAMA office in the southern region, stated that the United Nations continues to support the media in Afghanistan.

Speaking during a visit to Zabul province with journalists, Carette emphasized that media outlets are currently the most critical source of information for the people of Afghanistan and the global community. He stressed the importance of providing a suitable and safe working environment for media employees.

 “We need to continue to do more, and especially we are trying to push to get funding for more sustainable projects, and including to support the media. And I understand that the situation is frustrating for all of you here, but I can assure you we have not forgotten that we will continue to fight for the media, and make sure that you have an environment where you can do your job as freely as possible,” he said. 

Journalists from Zabul present at the meeting requested increased support for local media and journalistic activities in the province.

 “We ask UNAMA to support journalists and freelance reporters and to organize capacity-building programs for them,” said Asadullah Wafa, a journalist.

 “The local media in Zabul face significant economic challenges. Our request is for UNAMA to take measures to support them,” said Ismatullah Omari, the provincial head of a media support organization in Zabul.

 “The local media in Zabul are struggling with serious economic problems. We seek support for local radio stations and journalists in this province,” said Hedayatullah Nikzad, a journalist from Kandahar.

Carette further stated that in 2025, UNAMA would intensify efforts to ensure timely access to information, financial support for the media, and capacity-building for journalists.