The New School Graduate Program in International Affairs

"Of course there is risk and we are in a very tough situation, but that is why I stay, continuing my job and duty: because of my future, because of my country, because of my women." - Farida Nekzad

GPIA and imagining global asia present

Farida Nekzad is the managing editor and deputy director of Pajhwok Afghan News, Afghanistan's leading independent news agency.  The agency maintains eight bureaus throughout the country, staffed and managed entirely by Afghans.  Pajhwok draws on a network of contributing local and foreign reporters who provide stories in English, Pashto, and Dari.

Nekzad and the rest of Pajhwok's journalists pride themselves on their balanced reporting, refusing to be a mouthpiece of the establishment and encouraging free expression and government accountability.  Nekzad, who will be honored by the International Women's Media Foundation and the Committee to Protect Journalists, is one of the country's leading activists for women's rights.

During a flurry of attacks on female journalists in Afghanistan last year, she and some of her staff came under threat from Islamic groups angered by Pajhwok's reporting.  Nekzad never stopped working, despite being greatly concerned about her safety.  She has affirmed her commitment to staying in Afghanistan regardless of personal risk.

Bob Dietz, Asia Program Director, The Committee to Protect Journalists.

Sponsored by the Graduate Program in International Affairs and imagining global asia