Taliban Enforces Five New Nationwide Bans This Year
The Taliban has imposed at least five new nationwide bans in 2024, further tightening restrictions on daily life in Afghanistan.
The Taliban has imposed at least five new nationwide bans in 2024, further tightening restrictions on daily life in Afghanistan.
The latest came Monday, when the group abruptly cut off internet and telecommunications services across the country without explanation.
In addition to sweeping curbs on women’s education, employment, and political and economic participation, the Taliban has recently introduced measures affecting the wider population.
Internet and Mobile Services
On 16 September, the Taliban restricted internet access in northern and southern provinces, citing “immoral activities.” Initially imposed in Kandahar, Herat, Khost, Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Takhar and Balkh, the ban was later expanded nationwide. On 29 September, all internet and telecom services were suspended across Afghanistan.
Books Authored by Women
In September, the Taliban barred the teaching of books written by female authors in universities.
Lessons on Women, Rights and Freedom
The Taliban’s Ministry of Education removed 51 lessons from school textbooks on topics such as freedom, women’s rights, human rights, the national flag, mothers and peace. Officials said the subjects were “inconsistent with Islamic instructions and the group’s policies.”
Chess
In late May, the Taliban declared chess “haram” and prohibited the game nationwide. The International Chess Federation condemned the decision, saying it would block the game’s growth in Afghanistan and deny players international opportunities.
Female Aid Workers
Although women have been banned from most forms of employment since 2022, the Taliban enforced the restriction more strictly after a deadly earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, preventing female aid workers from participating in relief efforts. The group has also prohibited Afghan women from working with international organisations and NGOs.
