30.09.2025 14:32
The Taliban, which has recently increased pressure on women in Afghanistan and banned books by female authors in universities, has made another decision that has caused an uproar around the world. While internet and mobile phone services have been cut off in the country, there has been no explanation from the Taliban administration regarding the reason. In recent weeks, the Taliban had expressed concerns about online pornography.
Today, internet and mobile phone services have been cut off across Afghanistan. While the Taliban administration has not provided any explanation for the reason, it has frequently expressed its concerns about online pornography in recent weeks.
TALIBAN DECISIONS SPARKING REACTIONS
Since regaining power in 2021, the Taliban continues to draw international criticism with its decisions that restrict women's rights and freedom of expression.
Here are the controversial decisions made this year:
INTERNET ACCESS COMPLETELY CUT OFF
On September 17, the Taliban banned internet access in the northern provinces of Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Takhar, and Balkh, citing the need to "prevent immoral activities." Initially, mobile phone data was excluded from the ban. However, the decision quickly spread throughout the country, and internet access was completely cut off.
BAN ON BOOKS BY WOMEN WRITERS
According to a report by the New York Times, the Taliban instructed universities this month to remove books written by women from their shelves. Additionally, it was requested that 18 courses covering topics such as democracy, human rights, and women's studies be removed from the curriculum.
CHESS ALSO BANNED
In May, the Taliban banned the game of chess, claiming that it could lead to gambling. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) reacted to the ban, stating that it would hinder the development of Afghan players.
OBSTACLES FOR WOMEN HEALTH WORKERS
Women's right to work in Afghanistan is largely restricted. The World Health Organization called on the Taliban to allow female health workers to travel without a male escort. This request arose particularly after the earthquakes in recent weeks that claimed the lives of 2,200 people, highlighting the need to provide health services to women. However, the Taliban administration showed no flexibility. These decisions once again reveal the Taliban's strict practices that further narrow social life in the country.