Since taking control of Afghanistan, the Taliban have been systematically restricting basic human rights, particularly those of women. In a recent development, the Taliban government has further limited women's freedoms by banning them from speaking in public.
New Restrictions on Women's Freedoms
- Public Speaking Ban: The Taliban have introduced new laws that prohibit women from speaking in public. This includes singing, reciting, or reading aloud.
- Mandatory Full Body Covering: Women are now required to fully cover their bodies, including their faces. The hijab, which covers only the hair, is no longer deemed sufficient.
- Restrictions on Interaction with Men: Women are forbidden from looking at men who are not their close relatives.
New "Vice and Virtue" Laws
These new rules are part of the Taliban's "vice and virtue" laws, which are enforced by a ministry specifically created for this purpose. This ministry was established after the Taliban took over Afghanistan following the withdrawal of the US-led coalition forces.
- Ministry's Role: The ministry for the "Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice" is responsible for creating and enforcing these laws.
- Legislation Details: The new legislation, a 114-page document, was released recently and outlines the new restrictions in detail.
Consequences of Violating the New Rules
Women who do not comply with these new rules face severe penalties:
- Penalties: Violations can result in warnings, confiscation of property, or detention for up to three days.
- Enforcement: Thousands of women have already been detained under similar morality laws in the past.
Expert Opinions
Experts and human rights organizations have expressed concern over these new restrictions.
- Heather Barr's Statement: Heather Barr, associate director of Human Rights Watch's women's rights division, stated that many of these rules were already informally in place, but are now being formalized. She believes this is part of a gradual crackdown on women's freedoms over the past three years.
Conclusion
The Taliban's new laws represent a significant step back for women's rights in Afghanistan. These restrictions further isolate women from public life and limit their basic freedoms, drawing widespread criticism from the global community.
