Richard Bennett, the United Nations Human Rights Council's Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan, has expressed concern about the increasing restrictions on media in Afghanistan.

On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Bennett described journalism in Afghanistan as essential and called for international support for journalists in Afghanistan.

The UN Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan stated, "Journalism in Afghanistan is essential. I’m concerned about the increasingly restrictive media environment & arbitrary arrests of journalists. I urge the international community to provide support to Afghan journalists.”

Meanwhile, UK for Afghanistan and Karen Decker, Chargé d'Affaires of the US Mission to Afghanistan, have also emphasized the importance of hearing the voices of journalists in separate messages.

Karen Decker, said: " Afghan journalists are Afghan voices amplifying Afghan messages. They need to be heard. This WorldPressFreedomDay, we stand united in protecting press freedom worldwide.”

The UK for Afghanistan stated on the social network X, "On Media Freedom Day Britain continues to call for a free and independent media in Afghanistan, including a role for female journalists. This is vital to ensure accurate reporting on key issues such as climate change.”

Mohammad Raqib Fayaz, a journalist, said, "The media play a very important role in securing governmental reforms, maintaining order, and eradicating societal irregularities."

Mohammad Laeeq, another journalist, said, "Meetings of consonance between journalists and officials should be created, and in due time, officials should provide information to journalists."

The Islamic Emirate has always emphasized its support for journalists in the country.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, told TOLOnews, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan cooperates with media activities and collaborates with all active media in the country. We hold meetings with the Ministry of Information and Culture."

However, some journalists describe the media in the country as a bridge between the people and the government and call for timely access to information.

This comes as Afghanistan has fallen 26 places in the Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, due to deaths and arrests of journalists, ranking 178th in this index.