KABUL - Afghan media and journalists faced major challenges in 2013, with at least three reporters being killed and more than 70 cases of physical attacks registered with authorities.

Afghan Media Watch and Nai report that violence against journalists increased in comparison to last year. Reportedly, most cases of violence against journalists involved the Taliban, government employees and officials of private organizations, but rarely average Afghans.

Three journalists were killed in Parwan, Kapisa and Kunduz provinces.

Seven journalists were injured in Herat, Zabul, Baghlan and Kabul provinces.

Six other journalists were wrongfully arrested in Zabul, Nangarhar and Baghlan provinces.

Thirty-four journalists were beaten Balkh, Kabul, Nangarhar, Takhar, Baghlan and Kunduz provinces.

Twenty six cases of intimidation against journalists were registered in Daikondi, Kunduz, Paktia, Takhar, Herat, Khost, Kapisa and Kabul provinces.

"The relevant organizations should prosecute and follow through with the cases of violence against journalists that occurred over the past 12 years," Director at Nai Sediqullah Tawhidi said.

Tawhidi and his colleagues called for passage of the Law on Access to Information, which was drafted in 2013.

"The National Assembly should approve the law before the electoral campaigns begin, so journalists can report better based on the law," Tawhidi said. (Tolo News)