The Overseas Press Club of America is deeply concerned about the safety of journalists still working in Afghanistan, particularly local journalists and freelancers. Please share the resources below with your networks.
The U.S. State Department
On Aug. 2, the State Department announced it was expanding eligibility to its U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) Priority 2 Designation to Afghan nationals who worked for U.S.-based media organizations and their family members. Afghan nationals cannot apply to the program themselves; the most senior employee of the organization they worked for must submit the referral package to USRAPAfghanReferrals@state.gov. Once that package is deemed complete, and the Afghan national has made their own way to a third country, the processing of their application will begin, which can take months. Here is more about the program, and here are instructions for employees on how to refer someone.
Pakistan
The Pakistan Embassy in Kabul has decided to facilitate visas for journalists and media professionals in Afghanistan. Here is information on how to apply.
Canada
Canada announced plans to resettle 20,000 vulnerable Afghans “who contributed to Canada’s efforts in Afghanistan,” including journalists. To apply, email canada-afghanistan@international.gc.ca.
Journalists in Distress
The Journalists in Distress group (JID) is made up of 18 international organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, that provide direct assistance to journalists and media workers. For more information, please contact emergencies@cpj.org
The Overseas Press Club of America is the nation’s oldest and largest association of journalists engaged in international news. Every year, it awards the most prestigious prizes devoted exclusively to international news coverage. It was founded in 1939 by nine foreign correspondents in New York City, and has grown to nearly 500 members worldwide. The club’s mission is to uphold the highest standards in news reporting, advance press freedom and promote good fellowship among colleagues while educating a new generation of journalists.