The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan is greatly concerned by the ongoing detention of journalist Daniele Mastrogiacomo and calls upon those holding him to take this opportunity to show their humanity by immediately releasing him along with his detained Afghan colleagues. Mr. Mastrogiacomo is a well-known journalist whose sympathies for the people of Afghanistan should be beyond doubt to anyone. Throughout his reporting of this region over many years he has displayed compassion for the poor and suffering, communicating their voices to the outside world. We know of no reason whatsoever for him to be under anyone’s suspicion.

In Afghanistan, as elsewhere, journalists have a job to find and report on the truth. We ask that the rights of journalists to go about their work free from interference or harm be recognized and respected by all.

Kabul, March 17 2007