Call on the G7: protect and evacuate media workers in Afghanistan
Ahead of the G7 summit on the situation in Afghanistan, we join more than 50 civil society and media organisations from around the world in a call on the G7 countries, to make a clear and explicit commitment to taking journalists and media workers as an urgent and immediate priority, ensure their protection and evacuate them and their families.
On 24 August, G7 leaders discuss the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan by video conference. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson - representing the G7’s current presidency - called this meeting to urgently discuss the situation in Afghanistan and to coordinate international action.
Ahead of this summit, we recommend a number of immediate actions to support those at risk and urge a coordinated and rapid response. We ask that G7 members:
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Make an explicit commitment to evacuate all journalists, media workers and media advocates at risk, and their families
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Ease visa restrictions for all Afghan journalists, media workers, media advocates and their families seeking asylum
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Simplify and secure the process for visa application, and collaborate with third countries when possible
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Provide safe passage to and at the airport and other routes
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Remain in Kabul in order to secure the airport and the possibility to evacuate beyond the August 31 deadline
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Create an emergency fund for Afghan journalists and media workers
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Provide pathways for cash to enter in the country
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Repurpose development budget lines to address the emergency situation
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Coordinate efforts within the United Nations system for immediate support
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At the 26 August special session of the Human Rights Council, call for the establishment of an independent monitoring and investigative mechanism that is adequately staffed and resourced
A full list of recommendations, and organisations that undersigned, can be found in the document below:
