Taliban continues restrictions on Afghan women’s rights and activities
Two years after the government instructed NGOs to halt the employment of Afghan women for not following its strict interpretation of the Islamic dress code, the Ministry of Economy has once again ordered the cessation of female employment in institutions not controlled by the Taliban. The directive emphasized that failure to comply would result in the cancellation of activity licenses for those institutions.
The ministry, which oversees the registration, coordination, leadership, and supervision of national and foreign organizations, continues to assert its control over all activities carried out by such organizations. This action comes amid ongoing global condemnation of the Taliban’s policies, which have systematically erased Afghan women from public life since their return to power in August 2021. Women are now banned from post-primary education, employment, parks, and other public spaces, while access to humanitarian aid is increasingly restricted for female workers.
The Taliban’s restrictions have led to a situation described by the United Nations as “gender apartheid.” The government maintains that its actions are vital to preserve the country’s laws, social norms, and public safety. However, the international community continues to criticize these policies as violations of women’s basic rights.
Additionally, Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada issued a new decree mandating that buildings not have windows overlooking areas where women might be present. This regulation extends to both new and existing buildings, further isolating women from public and private spaces.
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