The Afghan Times

The Afghan Times is an independent and online news outlet founded in August 2022. Operated primarily by Afghan women journalists, the publication focuses on human rights and women's issues. The outlet provides content in Pashto, Dari and English. Salma Niazi, a 23-year-old journalist from Laghman province, Afghanistan, established The Afghan Times while in exile in Pakistan. Niazi's decision to enter journalism was motivated by the lack of female representation in the media in her region. Her career began at a local level, but following the Taliban's return to power in 2021, she was forced to flee Afghanistan due to increasing restrictions and threats against female journalists.

Content
The Afghan Times aims to document and challenge the Taliban's restrictions on women by reporting on their impact through a female perspective. The publication features articles on issues like the ban on women working, the exclusion from education, and the everyday struggles of Afghan women. It also covers broader human rights topics and seeks to engage both local and international audiences.

Challenges
Operating under the Taliban's regime presents significant risks for the journalists of The Afghan Times, especially those still in Afghanistan. The outlet's reporters use pseudonyms to protect their identities. Despite these dangers, the publication persists in its mission to shed light on the plight of Afghan women and hold the Taliban accountable for their actions. The work of The Afghan Times has garnered international attention and support, highlighting the resilience of Afghan women journalists.

Current Status
Funded initially by Niazi's personal savings, The Afghan Times seeks sustainable financial support to continue its operations and potentially expand its staff. The publication remains a crucial platform for Afghan women, providing a voice amid widespread censorship and repression. Niazi's ultimate goal is to secure a safe environment where she can continue advocating for Afghan women's rights and ensure their stories are heard globally.