Date: 16/11/1403

Ministry of Information and Culture X message: Broadcasts of Begum Radio Suspended
Today, Tuesday (5 Sha'ban 1446), based on a decision by the Ministry of Information and Culture, the broadcasts of a radio station named Begum, which held a broadcasting license from the Ministry, have been suspended. In addition to multiple violations, the station was reportedly providing content and programs to a television channel based abroad. Due to breaches of the broadcasting policy and improper use of its license, the radio’s transmissions have been halted to allow for a thorough review of the relevant documents and to determine the final decision regarding its status.
Date: 1403/11/16 (Hijri Solar)
Corresponding to: 2025/02/04 (Gregorian)

Attached Press Release from Taliban Ministry of Information and Culture.

Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
Ministry of Information and Culture
Press Release

Suspension of Begum Radio Broadcasts
Based on the policies of the Ministry of Information and Culture, Begum Radio—which operates under a broadcasting license issued by the Ministry of Information and Culture—has been suspended due to multiple violations.

According to the Ministry of Information and Culture, the radio station had been providing content and programs to a television channel abroad. Due to violations of broadcasting regulations, misuse of its license, and failure to comply with established principles, the station’s broadcasts have been halted.

The suspension will remain in place until a thorough review of the relevant documents is conducted and a final decision is made. This decision has been taken to ensure accuracy, order, and adherence to media principles and regulations.

The suspension of Radio Begum’s broadcasts demonstrates the use of regulatory and judicial messaging to legitimize the suppression of independent and women-focused media under Taliban rule. While framed as a licensing and compliance matter, the reliance on vague allegations—such as cooperation with foreign media—and the absence of transparent procedures or timelines point to censorship rather than neutral regulation. Taken together with raids, confiscations, and staff detentions, the suspension forms part of a broader pattern of institutional pressure designed to silence women’s voices and restrict access to independent information.