Hamid Farhadi

HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDER

Country(ies) of nationality

Type of HRD

HRD's thematic area of engagement

HRD's bio and work: Hamid Farhadi is an Afghan journalist and reporter for the U.S.-based news outlet Etilaatroz (KabulNow). Farhadi is known for his investigative reporting on human rights and women's issues in Afghanistan.

Country or area of detention

Region of detention

Geolocation of detention

Latitude: 34.941313

Longitude: 69.297402

Charge(s)

Sentence: 2 years in prison on charges of cooperating with the newspaper in exile.

Recent case update / evolution: Hamid Farhadi was arrested by Taliban forces from the Ministry of Interior on September 3, 2024, in Kabul. On September 19, 2024, he was tried without legal representation and sentenced to two years in prison on charges of "spreading propaganda against the authorities". Initially detained in Pul-e-Charkhi prison, he was later transferred without notice to Bagram prison on March 28, 2025.Details of the legal process for these journalists have not been independently verified.

Hamid Farhadi being transferred to Bagram prison on 28 March 2025.

Allegations / reports of ill-treatment: Reports indicate that Hamid Farhadi was subjected to ill-treatment during detention, including prolonged solitary confinement and harsh interrogation conditions. His sudden transfer from Pul-e-Charkhi to Bagram Prison without notice raised further concerns about his safety. Family visits are extremely restricted, and his mental and physical well-being have reportedly deteriorated.

Protection actions and campaigns

Urgent support needed: Medical assistance. His deteriorating health, reports of ill-treatment, and restricted family access place him at serious risk of further harm.

Legal assistance to protect his rights and secure his release.

Any other relevant documents: https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/asa11/9387/2025/en/

https://www.afintl.com/en/202512088421

Documented by

SOS Defenders