Reporting in Silence: Young Journalist of the Year on working in secret under Taliban rule

Reporting in secret under the oppressive shadow of Taliban rule in Afghanistan, Thomson’s Young Journalist of the Year for 2024 is a woman whose fearless journalism for The Afghan Times—an outlet founded by Afghan women journalists and now run in exile—has brought to light critical stories, from the closure of women-only restaurants to the struggles of women impacted by natural disasters.

In this exclusive interview, she shares her journey as a journalist in one of the world’s most dangerous environments, the challenges of working under constant threat and the unwavering mission that drives her.

When and why did you decide to become a journalist?

I decided to become a journalist because I wanted to be a voice for the voiceless, especially Afghan women who have been marginalised for decades. Growing up, I saw the struggles of women in my country and felt a responsibility to share their stories with the world. Journalism felt like a powerful way to bring attention to the injustices they face and to advocate for change.

When I started working with The Afghan Times in 2022, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility. It became an important part of my life, shaping how I approach my work and allowing me to tell stories that truly matter. Every day, I feel proud of the work I do with The Afghan Times. The stories I’ve worked on have reached audiences in a meaningful way, and I am encouraged by the impact they have had. Through The Afghan Times, I feel like I can contribute in a good style and format that resonates with readers.

What are the particular problems you face working as a woman journalist in Afghanistan, and can you describe what a working day for you is like?

The main challenges include severe restrictions on my movement and constant fear of being targeted by the Taliban. As a woman, I am not allowed to work publicly or openly. A typical working day involves operating in secrecy, using encrypted tools to communicate with sources, and planning every step carefully to avoid detection.

I also face significant difficulties in accessing information, as government sources and official channels are largely unavailable to women journalists. The Taliban’s policies mean I cannot freely meet with sources or conduct interviews in public. Many sources, especially women, fear retaliation for speaking out, making it even harder to gather firsthand accounts.

The stigma attached to women journalists is another obstacle. In addition to the Taliban's restrictions, societal attitudes influenced by their ideology often result in harassment or hostility from civilians. Technical challenges, such as limited internet access or surveillance risks, further complicate the reporting process.

As a young team in Afghanistan, we also lack the proper equipment needed for professional journalism. We often rely on basic tools that are inadequate for the scale and sensitivity of the work we do. This limitation makes it harder to produce high-quality reports and maintain the security needed in such a risky environment.

Every day is filled with a constant balance of caution and commitment. While these challenges are overwhelming at times, they fuel my determination to continue shedding light on the stories that need to be told.

Without putting yourself at risk, can you reveal the sort of security measures you have to take and your biggest challenges when gathering stories and working with sources?

I rely on encrypted communication methods and a trusted network of sources who understand the risks we all face. I avoid leaving any digital or physical trail that could lead to me or my work. The biggest challenge is accessing firsthand accounts while ensuring the safety of both my sources and myself. The risk of surveillance or retaliation is always present. Our editor-in-chief, Salma Niazi, is instrumental in guiding us through these challenges, providing training and instructions at every step to ensure our safety and the accuracy of our work.

What do you fear the most about doing your job?

My biggest fear is endangering the lives of those who share their stories with me. The Taliban's strict control and their willingness to punish dissent make every interaction potentially life-threatening for both my sources and myself.

The restrictions on women are constantly changing and being updated. How do you adapt?

Adapting requires staying informed about the latest decrees and understanding the risks they pose. I adjust my reporting methods, avoid high-risk areas, and lean on my network for support. Flexibility and vigilance are critical to surviving in such an unpredictable environment.

Our editorial team also plays a vital role in ensuring our safety. They carefully monitor the changing restrictions and frequently update our working methods to keep us protected. Every detail is considered meticulously, allowing us to continue our work as safely as possible in such a dangerous context.

Are there any particular stories you’ve reported on that have stayed with you or had a significant impact?

One story that deeply moved me was about women-only restaurants being shut down. These spaces symbolised a small but meaningful freedom for Afghan women, and their closure marked another devastating loss under Taliban rule. Reporting on the child labour crisis also stays with me—it revealed the harsh reality faced by children in Afghanistan, forced into labour due to poverty and restrictions on women's employment.

How do you decide which stories to pursue in such a restrictive environment?

I prioritise stories that shed light on the struggles of marginalized groups, especially women and children. Each story is chosen based on its potential to amplify their voices and bring international attention to their plight, while also weighing the risks involved in pursuing it.

With so many challenges and increasing restrictions, why do you continue to work as a journalist?

I continue because journalism is not just a profession for me; it is a mission. Telling the stories of Afghan women and highlighting their resilience gives them a platform and keeps their struggles visible. Their courage inspires me to push forward despite the challenges. The unwavering support and leadership of Salma Niazi also motivate me to remain committed to this work.

How does it feel to be recognised as the Young Journalist of the Year but not being able to be identified?

It is bittersweet. While I am honoured and humbled by the recognition, I wish I could openly celebrate this achievement. Being anonymous is a reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in Afghanistan, but it also fuels my determination to continue my work.

What does this award mean to you?

The award is a validation of our efforts and a reminder that the world is paying attention to the stories of Afghan women. It motivates me to keep working and inspires hope that my reporting can lead to change, even in small ways. Salma Niazi’s mentorship has been crucial in preparing me for this recognition and for the future challenges I may face.

This recognition is also a collective achievement for our entire team at The Afghan Times. Even though, for safety reasons, we do not know each other’s identities, Salma acts as a bridge, sharing our messages and fostering a sense of connection and pride among us. We all feel proud of what we’ve achieved together, even while working in isolation.

This award honours not just my work but the dedication and courage of every member of our team, including those who contributed on the ground and all my anonymous journalist sisters, whose bravery and resilience inspire me every day. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and solidarity in the face of adversity.

In a country where men are often seen as the leaders and women are considered weak or incapable, this recognition is a powerful response. It shows that women, even in the most difficult circumstances, can excel and make a significant impact. It sends a message that women should be present in newsrooms, that our voices and contributions are valuable, and that we are strong. This recognition challenges the societal norms that undermine women’s roles and highlights the strength and resilience of Afghan women, especially those in the field of journalism.

Is there anything you’d like to say to other journalists working in challenging or dangerous circumstances?

To my fellow journalists, I want to say: your work matters. In the darkest times, your courage and persistence make a difference. Stay strong, stay connected, and remember that you are not alone. Together, we can continue to amplify the voices that need to be heard.

What are your goals and hopes for the future?

My hope is for a free and inclusive Afghanistan where women can reclaim their rights and contribute to society without fear. I dream of continuing my journalism work openly and helping to rebuild a country where freedom of expression and equality are fundamental values.