338. Navigating Ethics in Afghan Journalism with Saad Mohseni (Part 1)
Oct 1, 2024
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Saad Mohseni, co-founder of Moby Group, discusses his journey from diplomat's son to leading Afghanistan's largest media company. He explores the ethical challenges of journalism in a country under Taliban rule, revealing the complexities of reporting on sensitive issues while maintaining safety. Mohseni reflects on the severe humanitarian impacts following the U.S. withdrawal, emphasizing the need for continued support for women and minorities. His insights shed light on the fragile state of media freedom in one of the world's most challenging environments.
The podcast discusses the ethical dilemmas journalists encounter in reporting sensitive issues in Afghanistan, particularly regarding women's and minorities' rights amid safety concerns.
It underscores the humanitarian impact of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, highlighting the urgent need for international engagement to support vulnerable populations.
Deep dives
Saad Masseni's Journey and Media Impact in Afghanistan
Saad Masseni, who co-founded Afghanistan's largest media company, Moby Group, has an extraordinary background shaped by his experiences as an Afghan expatriate. Born to Afghan diplomats and raised in multiple countries, he returned to Afghanistan post-9/11 to establish a media presence that aimed to provide independent news in a region previously dominated by state-controlled narratives. Over the last two decades, Masseni expanded his operations from a small radio station to include several television networks, showcasing a resilient commitment to providing top news content despite ongoing challenges. His journey demonstrates the complexities of operating a media company in a volatile political environment, particularly after the Taliban's return to power, challenging and redefining the norms of free expression that had briefly emerged in Afghanistan.
Challenges of Running Media Under Taliban Rule
Despite the oppressive environment created by the Taliban's resurgence, Masseni’s media operation continues to function, although under immense constraints. Over the last three years, the business has felt like a perpetual startup, facing daily operational threats and making decisions that could risk lives. The organization must navigate strict limitations on content, such as prohibiting music and soap operas, while adapting to new broadcasting guidelines that often change without clear communication from the authorities. Furthermore, the media continues to play a vital role in educating the Afghan populace through programs in essential subjects, even as female representation on screen is heavily restricted, showcasing the ongoing struggle between maintaining operations and adhering to stringent regulations.
Consequences of the U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan
The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan led to immense repercussions for the Afghan populace, including a significant humanitarian crisis. While Masseni acknowledges that U.S. involvement was necessary, he critiques the hastiness and lack of strategy during the withdrawal process, which left many Afghan citizens vulnerable to the Taliban. The abrupt exit caused not only a collapse of the Afghan military but also a regression in the freedoms gained over two decades, especially for women and marginalized communities. As sanctions and international disengagement take their toll, the challenges faced by everyday Afghans are dire, underscoring the need for a reassessment of how the international community engages with Afghanistan moving forward.
Saad Mohseni, the visionary co-founder and executive officer of Moby Group, shares his remarkable journey from London to Kabul in our latest episode. Born to Afghan parents and having traversed the globe, Saad found himself in the heart of Afghanistan in 2002, where his modest radio station blossomed into the nation's largest media company. Despite the Taliban's return in 2021 and the ensuing restrictive environment, Moby Group perseveres. Saad's story is not just one of business success but of relentless resilience and the fight to uphold an independent media voice in one of the world's most challenging regions.
Episode Summary:
We navigate the murky waters of ethical journalism in volatile areas like Afghanistan. From the dilemmas surrounding the coverage of sensitive issues to the broader ramifications of the U.S. withdrawal, our conversation offers a nuanced understanding of the complexities journalists face. Finally, we discuss the humanitarian fallout of the abrupt Afghan withdrawal, emphasizing the ongoing need for engagement to sustain the progress made, especially for women and minorities.
Key Takeaways:
Ethical Journalism in Volatile Regions: The episode explores the ethical challenges journalists face in regions like Afghanistan, particularly in reporting on sensitive issues such as the treatment of women and minorities, while balancing safety and credibility.
Humanitarian Impact of the U.S. Withdrawal: The discussion highlights the severe humanitarian consequences following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and stresses the need for continued international support, especially for women and minorities.
Role of Independent Media: Mobi Group’s efforts are crucial for providing information and education in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of independent media and their role in employing women and offering educational programs.
Notable Quotes:
"We must cover every story, no matter how controversial, because otherwise, we lose our credibility. But every decision carries the weight of potential danger."
"While edicts from the Taliban are very explicit, their implementation is often vague. One week we are told to continue as before, the next, we are questioned for not abiding by the rules."
"Covering sensitive stories is a precarious balance. We must decide how to cover them without compromising safety or credibility, all while under the threat of conflicting directives from authorities."
