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BBC Radio Silenced as UNHCR Calls for Aid Amid Afghan Return Wave

Following the suspension of BBC radio broadcasts by Afghanistan's Ministry of Information and Culture, the UN refugee chief urged greater international support for 7 million returnees and highlighted the plight of women and girls.

BBC Radio Silenced as UNHCR Calls for Aid Amid Afghan Return Wave
Author
Democracy News Live Desk
Date
13 Oct 2026
Read
2 min
The Silence on the Airwaves

Afghanistan’s Ministry of Information and Culture has suspended BBC radio broadcasts across the country. Safiullah Raed, the head of media monitoring, confirmed the move, citing "repeated violations" without providing further details. A BBC spokesperson stated that they are in contact with officials to resolve the issue.

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A Concurrent Appeal

At the 77th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee, the High Commissioner for Refugees called for greater international investment to support the reintegration of nearly seven million Afghan returnees since late 2023. He noted that many of these individuals returned under difficult and involuntary conditions.

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BBC FM radio transmissions suspended in Afghanistan https://t.co/nskNoh0WtJ

12:16 PM · 13 Oct 2026
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Voices Beneath Restrictions

In his remarks, the High Commissioner highlighted the severe restrictions on Afghan women and girls. Sharing a poem written by a young girl in Kabul, he urged world leaders to provide opportunities for Afghan girls to fulfill their aspirations. The poem included the lines: "Never forget you’re not alone. Your voice matters and your dreams are valuable."

In his remarks, the High Commissioner highlighted the severe restrictions on Afghan women and girls.

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