The Afghan Journalists in Exile Network (AJEN) held a hybrid coordination meeting on 20 May, bringing together Afghan journalists based in Delhi and several European countries to discuss the challenges they face in exile and identify practical avenues for professional and international support.
Britta Petersen, representative of the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, participated in the meeting and contributed to discussions on the situation of displaced Afghan journalists and possible areas of cooperation.
Challenges facing journalists in exile
A major focus of the meeting was the situation of Afghan journalists currently living in Delhi. Participants highlighted uncertainty over their future, difficulties finding employment, visa and residency challenges, and limited opportunities to continue working professionally as journalists.
Journalists based in Europe also shared concerns about professional integration and the need for stronger networks and sustainable opportunities that would allow displaced Afghan media professionals to continue their careers.
Participants emphasized that international organizations and institutions should develop longer-term support mechanisms for Afghan journalists, particularly those facing legal uncertainty or protection concerns.
Professional opportunities and press accreditation
The meeting explored ways to connect Afghan journalists with training programs, fellowships, scholarships, employment opportunities and international media organizations.
Participants stressed that information about such opportunities should be shared more systematically so journalists can access them in a timely manner.
The issue of press cards and professional accreditation was also discussed. Journalists noted that recognized credentials are important for covering events, accessing professional spaces and establishing relationships with media organizations.
Advocacy with European embassies
Participants agreed on the need for stronger advocacy with European governments and diplomatic missions.
One proposal was to prepare a joint letter to European embassies and relevant institutions, drawing attention to Afghan journalists facing prolonged legal uncertainty and seeking support for protection, humanitarian assistance and possible relocation pathways.
Visa renewals, residency documentation, access to essential services and prospects for long-term legal status were also raised as pressing concerns.
Conferences in Delhi and Berlin
The meeting also discussed preparations for upcoming conferences and activities in Delhi and Berlin.
Participants said these events could provide important platforms for Afghan journalists to engage with international media organizations, policymakers and press freedom groups while bringing greater international attention to the challenges facing Afghan journalism in exile.
Britta Petersen calls for coordinated action
During the discussion, Britta Petersen acknowledged the significant difficulties facing Afghan journalists outside the country and emphasized the importance of collective action and sustained international engagement.
She noted that meaningful progress would require cooperation among journalists, civil society organizations, international institutions and other partners, and expressed support for initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges.
Next steps
The meeting concluded with an agreement to strengthen coordination among Afghan journalists and supporting organizations, expand information-sharing on professional opportunities, explore solutions for press accreditation, advocate with European institutions, and continue preparations for the planned Delhi and Berlin conferences.
AJEN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting displaced Afghan journalists, defending press freedom and helping media professionals remain active in journalism despite the challenges of exile.
