ASJF promotes safe working conditions, professional dignity and equal treatment for sports journalists in Afghanistan and abroad. This resource provides general principles for prevention, response and professional support; it is not a substitute for emergency, legal or medical services.
Before an assignment
Journalists should assess foreseeable risks, confirm contacts and transport, understand venue and local rules, protect essential documents and equipment, and establish a reliable check-in plan when covering higher-risk assignments.
Personal and digital safety
Use strong device security, secure accounts with multi-factor authentication where available, minimize unnecessary sensitive data, maintain secure backups and consider the risks of publishing real-time locations. Protect confidential sources and communications according to the sensitivity of the assignment.
Harassment, threats and intimidation
Threats, stalking, harassment, discriminatory abuse and intimidation should be documented when it is safe to do so. Journalists should preserve relevant evidence, inform trusted professional contacts and seek appropriate organizational, legal or emergency assistance according to the seriousness of the situation.
Detention or restriction of movement
Where a journalist is detained or prevented from working, safety should take priority over confrontation. Colleagues should record verified information, avoid spreading unconfirmed claims and contact appropriate legal, consular, employer or emergency support when available.
Professional rights and dignity
Journalists should be able to work without discrimination, coercion or improper interference. ASJF supports the principles of editorial independence, fair professional treatment, equal opportunity and respect for journalists’ lawful work.
Welfare and peer support
Difficult assignments can create significant stress. Newsrooms and colleagues should encourage reasonable rest, peer support and access to qualified professional help where needed, while respecting privacy and confidentiality.
Requesting ASJF support
Members may contact ASJF for confidential professional guidance, documentation of a verified incident, referral to appropriate support channels or institutional advocacy where ASJF is able to assist. In an immediate emergency, contact the relevant local emergency services or competent authorities first.