The United Nations mission in Afghanistan on Sunday (August 25) expressed concern over a new morality law recently ratified by the Taliban. The latest "morality" law places severe restrictions on women, forcing them to "ensure her voice is not heard" and penalising them if they don't.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:84,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1773}">UN's criticism of the law</h2>

Roza Otunbayeva, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), criticised the law for granting "moral inspectors" significant discretionary power.&nbsp;

She pointed out that these inspectors could "threaten and detain anyone based on broad and sometimes vague lists of infractions".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharia-rule-a-lifelong-responsibility-akhundzada-on-three-years-of-taliban-rule-in-afghanistan-750426">Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan</a>

"After decades of war and in the midst of a terrible humanitarian crisis, the Afghan people deserve much better than being threatened or jailed if they happen to be late for prayers, glance at a member of the opposite sex who is not a family member, or possess a photo of a loved one," she said.

As per AFP, while many of these restraints were already in place informally, this law formalises further constraints on their rights.&nbsp;

Otunbayeva said the new law "extends the already intolerable restrictions on the rights of Afghan women and girls, with even the sound of a female voice outside the home apparently deemed a moral violation". The UN has previously described the treatment of Afghan women as "gender apartheid".

She also raised concerns about the implications for religious and press freedoms. The law prohibits media from publishing content deemed "hostile to Sharia law and religion" or "that shows living beings".

However, UNAMA acknowledged some positive elements within the law, including protections against the abuse of orphans and the prohibition of "bacha bazi", a practice where boys are sexually exploited by older men.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:82,&quot;y&quot;:506,&quot;w&quot;:355,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:115,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2195}" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-taliban-govt-enacts-vice-and-virtue-law-752612">Afghanistan's Taliban govt enacts 'vice and virtue' law</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:541,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2230}">Taliban's new vice and virtue law</h2>

The law, which was codified with 35 articles, introduces strict behavioural guidelines based on the Taliban's interpretation of Sharia (Islamic law).&nbsp;

Women, in particular, face severe restrictions under the new law, with mandates to cover their faces and bodies when outside and to remain unheard in public.&nbsp;

It also enforces punishments ranging from warnings and fines to detentions, depending on the severity of the perceived infractions, all under the authority of the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations mission in Afghanistan on Sunday (August 25) expressed concern over a new morality law recently ratified by the Taliban. The latest "morality" law places severe restrictions on women, forcing them to "ensure her voice is not heard" and penalising them if they don't.

The United Nations mission in Afghanistan on Sunday (August 25) expressed concern over a new morality law recently ratified by the Taliban. The latest "morality" law places severe restrictions on women, forcing them to "ensure her voice is not heard" and penalising them if they don't. UN's criticism of the law Roza Otunbayeva, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), criticised the law for granting "moral inspectors" significant discretionary power. She pointed out that these inspectors could "threaten and detain anyone based on broad and sometimes vague lists of infractions". Also read | Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan "After decades of war and in the midst of a terrible humanitarian crisis, the Afghan people deserve much better than being threatened or jailed if they happen to be late for prayers, glance at a member of the opposite sex who is not a family member, or possess a photo of a loved one," she said. As per AFP, while many of these restraints were already in place informally, this law formalises further constraints on their rights. Otunbayeva said the new law "extends the already intolerable restrictions on the rights of Afghan women and girls, with even the sound of a female voice outside the home apparently deemed a moral violation". The UN has previously described the treatment of Afghan women as "gender apartheid". She also raised concerns about the implications for religious and press freedoms. The law prohibits media from publishing content deemed "hostile to Sharia law and religion" or "that shows living beings". However, UNAMA acknowledged some positive elements within the law, including protections against the abuse of orphans and the prohibition of "bacha bazi", a practice where boys are sexually exploited by older men. Also read | Afghanistan's Taliban govt enacts 'vice and virtue' law Taliban's new vice and virtue law The law, which was codified with 35 articles, introduces strict behavioural guidelines based on the Taliban's interpretation of Sharia (Islamic law). Women, in particular, face severe restrictions under the new law, with mandates to cover their faces and bodies when outside and to remain unheard in public. It also enforces punishments ranging from warnings and fines to detentions, depending on the severity of the perceived infractions, all under the authority of the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice. (With inputs from agencies)

UN concerned about Taliban's new vice and virtue law, the discretionary power it gives 'moral inspectors'

On the three-year anniversary of the Taliban's return to power, the group's supreme leader said in a speech that implementing Islamic law in the country was a "lifelong responsibility" for the Afghanistan rulers.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:84,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1954}">Three years of Taliban</h2>

On August 15, the Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power. On this day, in 2021, the Taliban government took over the nation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:178,&quot;w&quot;:574,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2048}" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taliban-celebrates-three-years-in-power-with-military-parade-featuring-homemade-bombs-and-soviet-tanks-750225">Taliban celebrates three years in power with military parade featuring homemade bombs and soviet tanks</a>

The Taliban government celebrated the anniversary of the takeover from the US a day early on August 14. The celebration was marked with an elaborate military show featuring military tanks from the Soviet era, artillery pieces through the former US air base in Bagram, and homemade bombs.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:313,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2183}">Sharia rule, a lifelong responsibility:&nbsp;Hibatullah Akhundzada</h2>

Speaking to the security personnel at the air base in Southern Kandahar on Wednesday (Aug 14), Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada said: "Brothers! Our responsibility of service to religion, ruling according to sharia (Islamic law), is our lifelong responsibility".

In the speech shared on social media platform X by chief government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, Akhundzada also said that they will "implement Allah's religion and sharia rule for ourselves and others as long as we live".

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د اسد د ۲۴ په مناسبت د عالیقدر امیرالمؤمنین شیخ القرآن والحدیث مولوي هبة الله اخندزاده حفظه الله تعالی وینا <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:278,&quot;y&quot;:573,&quot;w&quot;:143,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:311,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2443}" href="https://t.co/ozScNwBwCC">https://t.co/ozScNwBwCC</a>
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:324,&quot;y&quot;:604,&quot;w&quot;:201,&quot;h&quot;:29,&quot;abs_x&quot;:357,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2474}" href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1823780746278183213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The reclusive Taliban leader, in his rare remarks, also stated that "Sharia and the Islamic system are getting stronger day by day."

Despite three years in power, the Taliban government remains unrecognized by any other government. During this time, the orthodox government has implemented a number of restrictions on women, in what the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid".

As Madina, a 20-year-old former university student in Kabul, puts it, "Three years have passed since the dreams of girls have been buried."

Talking to AFP, she said, "It's a bitter feeling that every year, the celebration of this day reminds us of the efforts, memories, and goals we had for our future."

(With inputs from agencies)

On the three-year anniversary of the Taliban's return to power, the group's supreme leader said in a speech that implementing Islamic law in the country was a "lifelong responsibility" for the Afghanistan rulers.

On the three-year anniversary of the Taliban's return to power, the group's supreme leader said in a speech that implementing Islamic law in the country was a "lifelong responsibility" for the Afghanistan rulers. Three years of Taliban On August 15, the Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power. On this day, in 2021, the Taliban government took over the nation. Also read | Taliban celebrates three years in power with military parade featuring homemade bombs and soviet tanks The Taliban government celebrated the anniversary of the takeover from the US a day early on August 14. The celebration was marked with an elaborate military show featuring military tanks from the Soviet era, artillery pieces through the former US air base in Bagram, and homemade bombs. Sharia rule, a lifelong responsibility: Hibatullah Akhundzada Speaking to the security personnel at the air base in Southern Kandahar on Wednesday (Aug 14), Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada said: "Brothers! Our responsibility of service to religion, ruling according to sharia (Islamic law), is our lifelong responsibility". In the speech shared on social media platform X by chief government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, Akhundzada also said that they will "implement Allah's religion and sharia rule for ourselves and others as long as we live". د اسد د ۲۴ په مناسبت د عالیقدر امیرالمؤمنین شیخ القرآن والحدیث مولوي هبة الله اخندزاده حفظه الله تعالی وینا https://t.co/ozScNwBwCC — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) August 14, 2024 × Also read | Pakistan army arrests former ISI chief Faiz Hameed; court martial proceedings initiated The reclusive Taliban leader, in his rare remarks, also stated that "Sharia and the Islamic system are getting stronger day by day." Despite three years in power, the Taliban government remains unrecognized by any other government. During this time, the orthodox government has implemented a number of restrictions on women, in what the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid". As Madina, a 20-year-old former university student in Kabul, puts it, "Three years have passed since the dreams of girls have been buried." Talking to AFP, she said, "It's a bitter feeling that every year, the celebration of this day reminds us of the efforts, memories, and goals we had for our future." (With inputs from agencies)

Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan

Taliban celebrates three years in power with military parade featuring homemade bombs and soviet tanks

It's been three years of its rule in Afghanistan, and the Taliban government has achieved some diplomatic wins even as it has consolidated power and enforced its strict version of Islamic law.

The Taliban rulers continue to operate without official recognition from any country, with its restrictions on women being a major sticking point.

But concern over Afghanistan's worsening humanitarian crisis, the threat of terrorism, and hard-nosed pragmatism have led to some international engagement.

The most notable example was the Taliban government's participation, for the first time, in United Nations-hosted talks in Qatar,&nbsp;in June,&nbsp; to discuss economic issues and counter-narcotics efforts.

Chief Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who led the delegation, said the gathering was further proof that: "Afghanistan has come out of isolation".

"We are in favour of positive meetings with the condition that Afghanistan's situation is taken into account," he told AFP in a recent interview ahead of this week's three-year anniversary of the Taliban taking back power.&nbsp;

The talks went ahead after Kabul obtained the agreement of the UN, which has described restrictions on women in Afghanistan as "gender apartheid",&nbsp;that civil society and women's rights groups would not attend.

Obaidullah Baheer, grandson of former warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and an Afghan academic, said engagement at the talks was a "smart approach".

"The international community can't solve the women's rights issue. What they can do is try to create an environment" to gradually stabilise the economy in Afghanistan, Baheer said.

"Economic stability naturally brings with it some sort of opening for politics as well."

<h2>Security is 'priority'&nbsp;</h2>

The Taliban authorities, who are still pushing to fill Afghanistan's seat at the UN, are also forging regional ties.

"Currently, we have very good relations with neighbouring, regional and Muslim countries," Mujahid said, adding that about 40 countries had embassies or consulates in Afghanistan.

While Western embassies in Kabul have been closed for three years, Pakistan, China, Russia, Iran and Central Asian republics have established de facto diplomatic relations with Kabul.

Russia is also preparing to remove the Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations, while Beijing has appointed its first ambassador to Kabul since the takeover.

Fears over the growing security threat from the Islamic State group's branch in the region, known as Islamic State Khorasan Province, have also spurred engagement.

Last week, the UN warned that IS-K posed the greatest external terrorist threat to Europe and was growing in strength.

Mujahid insisted the IS threat was being overblown.

"We have brought the phenomenon of ISKP to nearly zero," he told AFP.

After ousting the foreign-backed government and ending their 20-year insurgency, the Taliban rulers have made security one of their highest priorities.

<h2>'Dialogue'</h2>

The Taliban authorities still allocate a large part of the national budget to security, despite Afghanistan no longer being at war and its economy in dire straits.

And while Afghans may welcome restored security after more than 40 years of successive conflicts, many struggle to feed themselves and strain under tightening restrictions.

A civil society activist, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal, described the rules on daily life as becoming "stricter and stricter".&nbsp;

Government affairs are mostly run through religious edicts from the reclusive supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, based in the Taliban southern stronghold of Kandahar.&nbsp;

Politically, there is no visible opposition: parties are banned, and there are no elections.

"There is no one to challenge the Emir," the civil society activist said.

The UN has described a "climate of fear" in the country, where popular protests are virtually non-existent.

The Taliban government rejects these accusations.

"We don't accept that we are totalitarian," Mujahid said.&nbsp;

The authorities have "mechanisms... to convey the voice of the people to the government", spokesman Mujahid said, referring to provincial councils comprising clerics and tribal elders.

"They might not be the same as in the previous government or what are common in democratic governments, but we have developed these mechanisms in an Islamic way and we are committed to the country's interests," Mujahid said.

Baheer, based in Kabul, said he still believed dialogue could bring about change.&nbsp;

"What we can do is constantly speak to the nation and these people (the Taliban authorities), creating a larger national pressure and ultimately... hoping that they realise that they are up against the people and they have to compromise," said the academic.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

It's been three years of its rule in Afghanistan, and the Taliban government has achieved some diplomatic wins even as it has consolidated power and enforced its strict version of Islamic law.

It's been three years of its rule in Afghanistan, and the Taliban government has achieved some diplomatic wins even as it has consolidated power and enforced its strict version of Islamic law. The Taliban rulers continue to operate without official recognition from any country, with its restrictions on women being a major sticking point. But concern over Afghanistan's worsening humanitarian crisis, the threat of terrorism, and hard-nosed pragmatism have led to some international engagement. The most notable example was the Taliban government's participation, for the first time, in United Nations-hosted talks in Qatar, in June, to discuss economic issues and counter-narcotics efforts. Chief Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, who led the delegation, said the gathering was further proof that: "Afghanistan has come out of isolation". "We are in favour of positive meetings with the condition that Afghanistan's situation is taken into account," he told AFP in a recent interview ahead of this week's three-year anniversary of the Taliban taking back power. The talks went ahead after Kabul obtained the agreement of the UN, which has described restrictions on women in Afghanistan as "gender apartheid", that civil society and women's rights groups would not attend. Obaidullah Baheer, grandson of former warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and an Afghan academic, said engagement at the talks was a "smart approach". "The international community can't solve the women's rights issue. What they can do is try to create an environment" to gradually stabilise the economy in Afghanistan, Baheer said. "Economic stability naturally brings with it some sort of opening for politics as well." Security is 'priority' The Taliban authorities, who are still pushing to fill Afghanistan's seat at the UN, are also forging regional ties. "Currently, we have very good relations with neighbouring, regional and Muslim countries," Mujahid said, adding that about 40 countries had embassies or consulates in Afghanistan. While Western embassies in Kabul have been closed for three years, Pakistan, China, Russia, Iran and Central Asian republics have established de facto diplomatic relations with Kabul. Russia is also preparing to remove the Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations, while Beijing has appointed its first ambassador to Kabul since the takeover. Fears over the growing security threat from the Islamic State group's branch in the region, known as Islamic State Khorasan Province, have also spurred engagement. Last week, the UN warned that IS-K posed the greatest external terrorist threat to Europe and was growing in strength. Mujahid insisted the IS threat was being overblown. "We have brought the phenomenon of ISKP to nearly zero," he told AFP. After ousting the foreign-backed government and ending their 20-year insurgency, the Taliban rulers have made security one of their highest priorities. 'Dialogue' The Taliban authorities still allocate a large part of the national budget to security, despite Afghanistan no longer being at war and its economy in dire straits. And while Afghans may welcome restored security after more than 40 years of successive conflicts, many struggle to feed themselves and strain under tightening restrictions. A civil society activist, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal, described the rules on daily life as becoming "stricter and stricter". Government affairs are mostly run through religious edicts from the reclusive supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, based in the Taliban southern stronghold of Kandahar. Politically, there is no visible opposition: parties are banned, and there are no elections. "There is no one to challenge the Emir," the civil society activist said. The UN has described a "climate of fear" in the country, where popular protests are virtually non-existent. The Taliban government rejects these accusations. "We don't accept that we are totalitarian," Mujahid said. The authorities have "mechanisms... to convey the voice of the people to the government", spokesman Mujahid said, referring to provincial councils comprising clerics and tribal elders. "They might not be the same as in the previous government or what are common in democratic governments, but we have developed these mechanisms in an Islamic way and we are committed to the country's interests," Mujahid said. Baheer, based in Kabul, said he still believed dialogue could bring about change. "What we can do is constantly speak to the nation and these people (the Taliban authorities), creating a larger national pressure and ultimately... hoping that they realise that they are up against the people and they have to compromise," said the academic. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Afghanistan's Taliban rulers score diplomatic wins, consolidate power

Declaring a war against Western Democracy, the Taliban have&nbsp;announced that it will soon start stoning women to death for adultery.&nbsp;

The radical group's Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada vowed this in a voice message broadcast on state TV on Saturday (Mar 23).

<h2>Alarming declaration</h2>

Labelling Western human rights defenders 'representatives of the devil', Akhundzada&nbsp;made the alarming declaration that the group will implement harsh punishments — including being stoned to death — against women.

"You say it's a violation of women's rights when we stone them to death. But we will soon implement the punishment for adultery," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-set-to-discuss-trade-normalisation-in-kabul-talks-703881">Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks</a>

He defiantly stated that despite Western objections, the Taliban would "flog women in public. We will stone them to death in public."

"These are all against your democracy, but we will continue doing it," he said, adding that they were deemed necessary by the Taliban to uphold their interpretation of Islamic law.

"We both say we defend human rights—we do it as God's representative and you as the devil's," he declared in his harshest comments&nbsp;since taking over Kabul in August 2021.

<h2>Taliban 2.0</h2>

Akhundzada's remarks represent a stark departure from the more moderate image the "new" Taliban have&nbsp;sought to portray since seizing power in Afghanistan in 2021.&nbsp;

The announcement underscores the challenges faced by Afghan women under Taliban rule and raises concerns about the group's commitment to human rights.

In his voice message, Akhundzada said that the women's rights advocated by the "Westerners" were against the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic Sharia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-reckless-air-strikes-by-pakistan-that-killed-eight-including-women-and-children-701533">Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children</a>

"Do women want the rights that Westerners are talking about?" he asked.

"They are against Sharia and clerics’ opinions, the clerics who toppled Western democracy."

Emphasising that Taliban foot soldiers must oppose the West, he added, "I told the Mujahedin that we tell the Westerners that we fought against you for 20 years, and we will fight 20 and even more years against you."

"We will bring Sharia to this land," said the Taliban supreme leader, who had not been seen in public since the Taliban seized control of Kabul.

<h2>'Imprisoned' women</h2>

His remarks have incited outrage among women, who have called for increased pressure from the international community.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban: Afghan women will be stoned to death for adultery

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-afghan-women-will-be-stoned-to-death-for-adultery-704629/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Talking to the Telegraph, Tala, a former civil servant, said: "The money that they receive from the international community as humanitarian aid is just feeding them against women."

Calling Afghanistan a "prison" that the Taliban are making "smaller…every passing day," she added, "I don’t feel safe and secure in Afghanistan."

"Each morning starts with a barrage of notices and orders imposing restrictions and stringent rules on women, stripping away even the smallest joys and extinguishing hope for a brighter future," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Declaring a war against Western Democracy, the Taliban have announced that it will soon start stoning women to death for adultery. The radical group's Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada vowed this in a voice message broadcast on state TV on Saturday (Mar 23).

Declaring a war against Western Democracy, the Taliban have announced that it will soon start stoning women to death for adultery. The radical group's Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada vowed this in a voice message broadcast on state TV on Saturday (Mar 23). Alarming declaration Labelling Western human rights defenders 'representatives of the devil', Akhundzada made the alarming declaration that the group will implement harsh punishments — including being stoned to death — against women. "You say it's a violation of women's rights when we stone them to death. But we will soon implement the punishment for adultery," he said. Also read | Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks He defiantly stated that despite Western objections, the Taliban would "flog women in public. We will stone them to death in public." "These are all against your democracy, but we will continue doing it," he said, adding that they were deemed necessary by the Taliban to uphold their interpretation of Islamic law. "We both say we defend human rights—we do it as God's representative and you as the devil's," he declared in his harshest comments since taking over Kabul in August 2021. Taliban 2.0 Akhundzada's remarks represent a stark departure from the more moderate image the "new" Taliban have sought to portray since seizing power in Afghanistan in 2021. The announcement underscores the challenges faced by Afghan women under Taliban rule and raises concerns about the group's commitment to human rights. In his voice message, Akhundzada said that the women's rights advocated by the "Westerners" were against the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic Sharia. Also read | Taliban condemn 'reckless' air strikes by Pakistan that it claims killed eight, including women and children "Do women want the rights that Westerners are talking about?" he asked. "They are against Sharia and clerics’ opinions, the clerics who toppled Western democracy." Emphasising that Taliban foot soldiers must oppose the West, he added, "I told the Mujahedin that we tell the Westerners that we fought against you for 20 years, and we will fight 20 and even more years against you." "We will bring Sharia to this land," said the Taliban supreme leader, who had not been seen in public since the Taliban seized control of Kabul. 'Imprisoned' women His remarks have incited outrage among women, who have called for increased pressure from the international community. Watch | Taliban: Afghan women will be stoned to death for adultery Talking to the Telegraph, Tala, a former civil servant, said: "The money that they receive from the international community as humanitarian aid is just feeding them against women." Calling Afghanistan a "prison" that the Taliban are making "smaller…every passing day," she added, "I don’t feel safe and secure in Afghanistan." "Each morning starts with a barrage of notices and orders imposing restrictions and stringent rules on women, stripping away even the smallest joys and extinguishing hope for a brighter future," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban supreme leader says women will soon be stoned to death for adultery

Taliban's supreme leader&nbsp;Hibatullah Akhundzada has claimed that his hardline regime has ensured the rights of girls and women better than any previous governments, according to a report in The Independent.&nbsp;

Akhundzada claimed that his regime has done away with the practice of forcefully marrying off women and widows.&nbsp;

“We have issued a six-principle decree regarding women’s rights. The previous governments have not provided the rights of women. We said don’t marry women by force, don’t violate mahr [amount paid by groom to the bride at the time of marriage as a traditional gift], don’t force women for nikah, don’t marry a widow by force. We give women the heritage,” said&nbsp;Akhundzada.&nbsp;

The Taliban boss also lauded his regime for not implementing the Islamic punishment method of Hudud in which the accused are subjected to amputation, flogging, stoning and death for crimes deemed extreme. The practice was predominantly in place during Taliban's previous regime in the 1990s.&nbsp;

However, despite his claims, the nonprofit Human Rights Watch (HRW) has stated that the reality on the ground remains completely different.&nbsp;

"What we know from their conduct on the ground is that there are credible reports of serious increases in child and forced marriage since the Taliban took over,”&nbsp;Heather Barr, associate director of women’s rights division at HRW told the outlet.&nbsp;

“We also know that widows – and women in general – have almost no access to justice, so any rights they might have on paper are virtually meaningless," she added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-taliban-jailing-unprotected-women-to-keep-them-safe-669983">Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban jailing 'unprotected' women to keep them safe</a>

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<h2>Taliban 2.0</h2>

Notably, immediately after Taliban 2.0 came to power in August 2021, the girls and women in the country were thrown out of schools and workplaces. Last month, the United Nations in its report said the Taliban administration was sending&nbsp;women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence.

According to the report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the Taliban send women to prisons if they have no male relatives to stay with or if the male relatives are considered unsafe. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-sending-women-to-prisons-to-protect-them-from-gender-based-violence-says-report-669928">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban sending women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence, says report</a>

"The most-reported types of complaints of gender-based violence against women and girls lodged with the de facto police, prosecution units, and courts were murder, including murder perpetrated for reasons of so-called 'honour',&nbsp;rape, causing injury or disability, and depriving a woman of inheritance," the report said.

Citing the Taliban, the UNAMA report said that women were sent to prisons for their protection “akin to how prisons have been used to accommodate drug addicts and homeless people in Kabul".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has claimed that his hardline regime has ensured the rights of girls and women better than any previous governments, according to a report in The Independent.

Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has claimed that his hardline regime has ensured the rights of girls and women better than any previous governments, according to a report in The Independent. Akhundzada claimed that his regime has done away with the practice of forcefully marrying off women and widows. “We have issued a six-principle decree regarding women’s rights. The previous governments have not provided the rights of women. We said don’t marry women by force, don’t violate mahr [amount paid by groom to the bride at the time of marriage as a traditional gift], don’t force women for nikah, don’t marry a widow by force. We give women the heritage,” said Akhundzada. The Taliban boss also lauded his regime for not implementing the Islamic punishment method of Hudud in which the accused are subjected to amputation, flogging, stoning and death for crimes deemed extreme. The practice was predominantly in place during Taliban's previous regime in the 1990s. However, despite his claims, the nonprofit Human Rights Watch (HRW) has stated that the reality on the ground remains completely different. "What we know from their conduct on the ground is that there are credible reports of serious increases in child and forced marriage since the Taliban took over,” Heather Barr, associate director of women’s rights division at HRW told the outlet. “We also know that widows – and women in general – have almost no access to justice, so any rights they might have on paper are virtually meaningless," she added. Watch | Afghanistan: Taliban jailing 'unprotected' women to keep them safe × Taliban 2.0 Notably, immediately after Taliban 2.0 came to power in August 2021, the girls and women in the country were thrown out of schools and workplaces. Last month, the United Nations in its report said the Taliban administration was sending women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence. According to the report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the Taliban send women to prisons if they have no male relatives to stay with or if the male relatives are considered unsafe. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban sending women to prisons to protect them from gender-based violence, says report "The most-reported types of complaints of gender-based violence against women and girls lodged with the de facto police, prosecution units, and courts were murder, including murder perpetrated for reasons of so-called 'honour', rape, causing injury or disability, and depriving a woman of inheritance," the report said. Citing the Taliban, the UNAMA report said that women were sent to prisons for their protection “akin to how prisons have been used to accommodate drug addicts and homeless people in Kabul". (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban chief claims women have better rights now than under previous governments

Some 200 members of Afghan special forces, who were trained and funded by the UK, are facing imminent deportation to their Taliban-controlled homeland.

Citing information gathered by a network of Afghan veterans, BBC News reports that when the Taliban took over, these soldiers sought refuge in Pakistan. However, now they face expulsion as Pakistan intends to deport Afghan refugees.

<h2>A betrayal</h2>

Calling the United Kingdom's failure&nbsp;to relocate these special forces personnel a "betrayal" and a "disgrace," General Sir Richard Barrons&nbsp;told BBC Newsnight that it "is a disgrace because it reflects that either we're duplicitous as a nation or incompetent".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-chief-says-countrys-afghan-deportation-drive-is-humane-dignified-667222">Pakistan Army chief says country's Afghan deportation drive is 'humane, dignified'</a>

The General, who served the British Army in Afghanistan for over 12 years, said "Neither are acceptable."&nbsp;

"It is a betrayal, and the cost of that betrayal will be people who served with us will die or spend their lives in prison," he added.

<h2>Words vs Actions</h2>

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson had previously acknowledged the importance of the service provided by these Afghan special forces, pledging to do "whatever we can" to ensure their "safe passage."&nbsp;However, the current situation paints a startlingly different picture.

As per the report, it was recently revealed that the UK government has rejected calls from British diplomatic and military figures to offer asylum to key figures of the Afghan civilian movement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/love-triumphs-borders-pakistani-woman-granted-visa-crosses-into-india-for-marriage-666753">Love triumphs over borders: Pakistani woman granted visa, crosses into India for marriage</a>

The BBC reported that it has obtained a private letter, sent in March 2022 to the Foreign Office. The letter urged urgent assistance for a group of 32 former governors, prosecutors, and officials who worked with the UK and US in Helmand Province between 2006 and 2014.&nbsp;

Despite applying through the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Programme (ARAP), which was meant&nbsp;for those closely associated with the UK government, many of these officials were rejected or are still awaiting decisions after more than a year.

Gen Sir Richard Barrons said: "I'm personally ashamed because I feel very deeply that we made an obligation to them and we have not fulfilled it."

"It's beyond absurd to say they don't qualify and that they should be left behind to a fate at the hands of the Taliban."

(With inputs from agencies)

Some 200 members of Afghan special forces, who were trained and funded by the UK, are facing imminent deportation to their Taliban-controlled homeland. Citing information gathered by a network of Afghan veterans, BBC News reports that when the Taliban took over, these soldiers sought refuge in Pakistan.

Some 200 members of Afghan special forces, who were trained and funded by the UK, are facing imminent deportation to their Taliban-controlled homeland. Citing information gathered by a network of Afghan veterans, BBC News reports that when the Taliban took over, these soldiers sought refuge in Pakistan. However, now they face expulsion as Pakistan intends to deport Afghan refugees. A betrayal Calling the United Kingdom's failure to relocate these special forces personnel a "betrayal" and a "disgrace," General Sir Richard Barrons told BBC Newsnight that it "is a disgrace because it reflects that either we're duplicitous as a nation or incompetent". Also read | Pakistan Army chief says country's Afghan deportation drive is 'humane, dignified' The General, who served the British Army in Afghanistan for over 12 years, said "Neither are acceptable." "It is a betrayal, and the cost of that betrayal will be people who served with us will die or spend their lives in prison," he added. Words vs Actions Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson had previously acknowledged the importance of the service provided by these Afghan special forces, pledging to do "whatever we can" to ensure their "safe passage." However, the current situation paints a startlingly different picture. As per the report, it was recently revealed that the UK government has rejected calls from British diplomatic and military figures to offer asylum to key figures of the Afghan civilian movement. Also read | Love triumphs over borders: Pakistani woman granted visa, crosses into India for marriage The BBC reported that it has obtained a private letter, sent in March 2022 to the Foreign Office. The letter urged urgent assistance for a group of 32 former governors, prosecutors, and officials who worked with the UK and US in Helmand Province between 2006 and 2014. Despite applying through the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Programme (ARAP), which was meant for those closely associated with the UK government, many of these officials were rejected or are still awaiting decisions after more than a year. Gen Sir Richard Barrons said: "I'm personally ashamed because I feel very deeply that we made an obligation to them and we have not fulfilled it." "It's beyond absurd to say they don't qualify and that they should be left behind to a fate at the hands of the Taliban." (With inputs from agencies)

UK's broken promises: Afghan Special Forces left in limbo, face threat of return to Taliban

As the clock ticks to the November 1st deadline set for undocumented migrants to leave Pakistan, more than 10,000 Afghans rushed to the borders on Tuesday.

Starting Wednesday, the Pakistani government will start arresting undocumented Afghans and taking them to new holding centres, where they will be processed before being forcibly made to return to Afghanistan.

<h2>Pakistan's announcement</h2>

On October 4th, Pakistan announced that starting Wednesday (Nov 1st) it will expel undocumented migrants who do not leave on their own.

There are already reports of harassment and extortion from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the majority of Afghan migrants live. However, police as per AFP, said they are yet to begin arrests.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-slammed-by-taliban-over-its-plan-to-expel-over-a-million-afghan-refugees-642620">Taliban slam Pakistan over its plan to expel over a million Afghan refugees</a>

The expulsion threat as per reports came after suicide bombings this year, which the South Asian nation's government said involved Afghans. However, Pakistan did not provide any evidence for the allegation. Islamabad has also blamed Afghan citizens for smuggling and other militant attacks in the nation.

As per the Taliban's data, between Sept 23 to Oct 22, some 60,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan.&nbsp;

Recent daily returnee figures to Afghanistan, as per a Reuters report quoting Taliban refugee ministry spokesman Abdul Mutaleb Haqqani, are three times higher than normal.

"Thousands of Afghan refugees are waiting for their turn in vehicles, lorries, and trucks, and the number continues to grow," said Irshad Mohmand, a senior government official at the Torkham border, while talking to AFP.

"More than 10,000 refugees have gathered since morning."

<h2>Harassment or not</h2>

Afghanistan's Taliban government, as per AFP, has said that Pakistan's policy amounts to "harassment".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-40-population-slips-below-poverty-line-world-bank-sounds-alarm-bell-639087">Pakistan: 40% population slips below poverty line, World Bank sounds alarm bell</a>

However, in a statement, Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that the expulsion plan was compliant with international norms and principles.

"Our record of the last forty years in hosting millions of our Afghan brothers and sisters speaks for itself," said Baloch.

<h2>Leaving 'home'</h2>

Talking to Reuters, an undocumented Pakistan-born Afghan national who is married to a Pakistani woman said: "We'd live here our whole life if they didn't send us back."

Over four million Afghans have made Pakistan their home, and about 1.7 million of them, according to Islamabad, are undocumented. While many of them sought refuge in Pakistan after the 2021 Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, a large number have been present since the 1979 Soviet invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the clock ticks to the November 1st deadline set for undocumented migrants to leave Pakistan, more than 10,000 Afghans rushed to the borders on Tuesday. Starting Wednesday, the Pakistani government will start arresting undocumented Afghans and taking them to new holding centres, where they will be processed before being forcibly made to return to Afghanistan.

As the clock ticks to the November 1st deadline set for undocumented migrants to leave Pakistan, more than 10,000 Afghans rushed to the borders on Tuesday. Starting Wednesday, the Pakistani government will start arresting undocumented Afghans and taking them to new holding centres, where they will be processed before being forcibly made to return to Afghanistan. Pakistan's announcement On October 4th, Pakistan announced that starting Wednesday (Nov 1st) it will expel undocumented migrants who do not leave on their own. There are already reports of harassment and extortion from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the majority of Afghan migrants live. However, police as per AFP, said they are yet to begin arrests. Also read | Taliban slam Pakistan over its plan to expel over a million Afghan refugees The expulsion threat as per reports came after suicide bombings this year, which the South Asian nation's government said involved Afghans. However, Pakistan did not provide any evidence for the allegation. Islamabad has also blamed Afghan citizens for smuggling and other militant attacks in the nation. As per the Taliban's data, between Sept 23 to Oct 22, some 60,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan. Recent daily returnee figures to Afghanistan, as per a Reuters report quoting Taliban refugee ministry spokesman Abdul Mutaleb Haqqani, are three times higher than normal. "Thousands of Afghan refugees are waiting for their turn in vehicles, lorries, and trucks, and the number continues to grow," said Irshad Mohmand, a senior government official at the Torkham border, while talking to AFP. "More than 10,000 refugees have gathered since morning." Harassment or not Afghanistan's Taliban government, as per AFP, has said that Pakistan's policy amounts to "harassment". Also read | Pakistan: 40% population slips below poverty line, World Bank sounds alarm bell However, in a statement, Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that the expulsion plan was compliant with international norms and principles. "Our record of the last forty years in hosting millions of our Afghan brothers and sisters speaks for itself," said Baloch. Leaving 'home' Talking to Reuters, an undocumented Pakistan-born Afghan national who is married to a Pakistani woman said: "We'd live here our whole life if they didn't send us back." Over four million Afghans have made Pakistan their home, and about 1.7 million of them, according to Islamabad, are undocumented. While many of them sought refuge in Pakistan after the 2021 Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, a large number have been present since the 1979 Soviet invasion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tens of thousands of Afghans rush to leave Pakistan as Nov 1st deadline looms

Across Afghanistan, thousands of beauty parlours closed down on Tuesday (July 25). One of the last few revenue streams available to Afghan women and a cherished space for socialising, beauty parlours in the South Asian nation are now permanently closed following an order by Afghanistan rulers Taliban.&nbsp;

This ban is the latest in a series of Taliban orders curtailing the already limited freedoms women had in Afghanistan, following the 2021 chaotic withdrawal of United States troops.

<h2>Women, employment and an economy in crisis&nbsp;</h2>

On Tuesday, as per AFP, many salons in Kabul had already closed, while others attempted to stay open till the last possible minute.&nbsp;

Talking to the new agency, one proprietor said that she had been forced to sign a declaration saying that she was shutting down her salon willingly, and would hand in her licence to operate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-orders-closure-of-hair-and-beauty-salons-in-afghanistan-further-restricting-womens-rights-611826">Taliban order closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan, further restricting women's rights</a>

"The scene was terrible — they came with military vehicles and guns," she said on the condition of anonymity.

"What can a woman do in the face of so much insistence and pressure?"

Reuters reports that as per industry estimates, the ban will lead to the closure of some 12,000 beauty businesses and around 60,000 women losing their jobs.&nbsp;

The UN Secretary General's special representative in Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva told Reuters that the ban "will disproportionately impact female entrepreneurs, which is a setback for resilience, poverty reduction, and economic recovery."

As per the International Labor Organization (ILO),&nbsp;the ban will create a "significant" decrease in women's employment.&nbsp;

<h2>Why beauty salons are important to Afghan women</h2>

Apart from the above-mentioned financial aspects, beauty salons in deeply patriarchal Afghanistan provided the women with a female-only space where they could meet outside their homes.&nbsp;

They served as a safe space where women could gather without a male chaperone, socialise and even prepare for celebrations like weddings.

<h2>The ban order</h2>

Taliban announced the ban on beauty salons last month. In June, the Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the forced closures, giving women a grace period to comply with the order.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-afghan-women-react-to-veiled-attempts-to-legitimise-talibans-rule-618494">Exclusive: Afghan women react to veiled attempts to legitimise Taliban's rule</a>

AFP reports that the ministry claimed that extravagant sums spent on beauty treatments like makeovers cause hardship for poor families. Labelling some treatments 'un-Islamic', it further said that too much make-up prevents women from proper ablutions for prayer.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Across Afghanistan, thousands of beauty parlours closed down on Tuesday (July 25). One of the last few revenue streams available to Afghan women and a cherished space for socialising, beauty parlours in the South Asian nation are now permanently closed following an order by Afghanistan rulers Taliban.

Across Afghanistan, thousands of beauty parlours closed down on Tuesday (July 25). One of the last few revenue streams available to Afghan women and a cherished space for socialising, beauty parlours in the South Asian nation are now permanently closed following an order by Afghanistan rulers Taliban. This ban is the latest in a series of Taliban orders curtailing the already limited freedoms women had in Afghanistan, following the 2021 chaotic withdrawal of United States troops. Women, employment and an economy in crisis On Tuesday, as per AFP, many salons in Kabul had already closed, while others attempted to stay open till the last possible minute. Talking to the new agency, one proprietor said that she had been forced to sign a declaration saying that she was shutting down her salon willingly, and would hand in her licence to operate. Also read | Taliban order closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan, further restricting women's rights "The scene was terrible — they came with military vehicles and guns," she said on the condition of anonymity. "What can a woman do in the face of so much insistence and pressure?" Reuters reports that as per industry estimates, the ban will lead to the closure of some 12,000 beauty businesses and around 60,000 women losing their jobs. The UN Secretary General's special representative in Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva told Reuters that the ban "will disproportionately impact female entrepreneurs, which is a setback for resilience, poverty reduction, and economic recovery." As per the International Labor Organization (ILO), the ban will create a "significant" decrease in women's employment. Why beauty salons are important to Afghan women Apart from the above-mentioned financial aspects, beauty salons in deeply patriarchal Afghanistan provided the women with a female-only space where they could meet outside their homes. They served as a safe space where women could gather without a male chaperone, socialise and even prepare for celebrations like weddings. The ban order Taliban announced the ban on beauty salons last month. In June, the Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the forced closures, giving women a grace period to comply with the order. Also read | Exclusive: Afghan women react to veiled attempts to legitimise Taliban's rule AFP reports that the ministry claimed that extravagant sums spent on beauty treatments like makeovers cause hardship for poor families. Labelling some treatments 'un-Islamic', it further said that too much make-up prevents women from proper ablutions for prayer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghan women lose another safe space as Taliban's beauty salon ban comes into force

Taliban have&nbsp;given Afghan women one month to shut down beauty and hair salons. In its latest crackdown on women's access to public places, the Taliban administration's morality ministry has ordered that these women-run establishments must be shut.

<h2>The diktat</h2>

As per Bloomberg, in a text message on Tuesday, the Tabilan's Ministry of Vice and Virtue said that "all beauty salons operated by women in Kabul and other provinces should be banned immediately and follow our order."

The message also warned that those found violating the order would "face legal action".

Speaking to BBC, a spokesman from the Vice and Virtue Ministry&nbsp;said that&nbsp;starting&nbsp;July 2&nbsp;— when they were initially informed about the decision — businesses have been given a one-month deadline to comply.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-taliban-is-helping-us-to-end-al-qaeda-610829">Taliban govt in Afghanistan is helping US to 'end' Al-Qaeda: President Joe Biden</a>

The Taliban government has not provided an explanation for the ban on beauty salons or offered any alternatives for women once they are closed. This latest move further curtails women's rights and reflects the ongoing challenges faced by women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

Talking to Bloomberg, Jamila Afghan, an Afghan women’s rights activist who fled Afghanistan and now lives in Turkey, said that the latest ban "will affect thousands of makeup artists and close hundreds of beauty shops nationwide."

"The Taliban don’t consider women as human beings but as a commodity to own and oppress," she remarked.

<h2>Beauty parlours and the Taliban rulers</h2>

The closure of beauty salons is part of a broader range of measures imposed by the Taliban during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001.

However, after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the salons reopened and operated until the Taliban regained power two years ago.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-publicly-executes-murder-suspect-second-since-takeover-606443">Taliban publicly execute murder suspect, second since takeover</a>

Since the Afghan rulers took over the nation, shop windows were often covered, and images of women outside salons were spray-painted to conceal their faces.

<h2>Other bans or restrictions on women</h2>

BBC reported&nbsp;that since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, women's freedom&nbsp;has&nbsp;progressively diminished. They have been barred from attending schools, gyms, and parks, and were recently banned from working for the United Nations.&nbsp;

The Taliban has also enforced strict dress codes, mandating that women only expose their eyes and requiring them to be accompanied by a male relative when travelling more than 72 kilometres (48 miles).

According to Bloomberg, currently working in hospitals as nurses and doctors is the only job&nbsp;women are allowed to perform in the nation. The ever-increasing restrictions have reportedly forced women to secretly work from home as teachers and makeup artists.

<h2>International condemnation</h2>

The international community, including foreign governments and the United Nations, has repeatedly condemned the Taliban's restrictions on women. However, despite the widespread international condemnation and protests by women and activists advocating for their rights, the group has continued to impose these restrictions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban have given Afghan women one month to shut down beauty and hair salons. In its latest crackdown on women's access to public places, the Taliban administration's morality ministry has ordered that these women-run establishments must be shut.

Taliban have given Afghan women one month to shut down beauty and hair salons. In its latest crackdown on women's access to public places, the Taliban administration's morality ministry has ordered that these women-run establishments must be shut. The diktat As per Bloomberg, in a text message on Tuesday, the Tabilan's Ministry of Vice and Virtue said that "all beauty salons operated by women in Kabul and other provinces should be banned immediately and follow our order." The message also warned that those found violating the order would "face legal action". Speaking to BBC, a spokesman from the Vice and Virtue Ministry said that starting July 2 — when they were initially informed about the decision — businesses have been given a one-month deadline to comply. Also read | Taliban govt in Afghanistan is helping US to 'end' Al-Qaeda: President Joe Biden The Taliban government has not provided an explanation for the ban on beauty salons or offered any alternatives for women once they are closed. This latest move further curtails women's rights and reflects the ongoing challenges faced by women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. Talking to Bloomberg, Jamila Afghan, an Afghan women’s rights activist who fled Afghanistan and now lives in Turkey, said that the latest ban "will affect thousands of makeup artists and close hundreds of beauty shops nationwide." "The Taliban don’t consider women as human beings but as a commodity to own and oppress," she remarked. Beauty parlours and the Taliban rulers The closure of beauty salons is part of a broader range of measures imposed by the Taliban during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001. However, after the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the salons reopened and operated until the Taliban regained power two years ago. Also read | Taliban publicly execute murder suspect, second since takeover Since the Afghan rulers took over the nation, shop windows were often covered, and images of women outside salons were spray-painted to conceal their faces. Other bans or restrictions on women BBC reported that since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, women's freedom has progressively diminished. They have been barred from attending schools, gyms, and parks, and were recently banned from working for the United Nations. The Taliban has also enforced strict dress codes, mandating that women only expose their eyes and requiring them to be accompanied by a male relative when travelling more than 72 kilometres (48 miles). According to Bloomberg, currently working in hospitals as nurses and doctors is the only job women are allowed to perform in the nation. The ever-increasing restrictions have reportedly forced women to secretly work from home as teachers and makeup artists. International condemnation The international community, including foreign governments and the United Nations, has repeatedly condemned the Taliban's restrictions on women. However, despite the widespread international condemnation and protests by women and activists advocating for their rights, the group has continued to impose these restrictions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban order closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan, further restricting women's rights

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is holding discussions with Afghanistan rulers, the Taliban regarding the "timelines and practicalities" of a potential handover of its education programs to local organisations. As per UNICEF, it has received assurances from the education ministry that community-based classes, which educate 500,000 students, would continue while these discussions took place.

<h2>Participation of international organisations in education</h2>

As per Reuters, aid officials say that the Taliban has indicated that international organisations could no longer be involved in education projects. The move which has been criticised by UNICEF is yet to be officially confirmed by Afghan authorities.

Speaking to Reuters, UNICEF's Afghanistan spokesperson, Samantha Mort expressed appreciation for the commitment from the de facto minister to ensure classes continue during discussions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-sells-tickets-to-ruins-of-iconic-bamian-buddhas-it-destroyed-two-decades-ago-605721">Taliban selling tickets to ruins of iconic Bamian Buddhas it blasted two decades ago</a>

"As the lead agency for the education cluster in Afghanistan, UNICEF is engaged in constructive discussions with the de facto Ministry of Education and appreciates the commitment from the de facto minister to keep all ... classes continuing while discussions take place about timelines and practicalities," said Mort.&nbsp;

She emphasised that "In order to minimise disruption to children's learning, it is imperative that any handover to national NGOs is done strategically and includes comprehensive assessment and capacity building."

The Ministry of Education has not publicly confirmed the reported policy change.

<h2>Taliban and Education in Afghanistan</h2>

Since assuming power in 2021, the Taliban has closed most secondary schools for girls, prevented female students from attending universities, and restricted the participation of Afghan women in aid groups and the United Nations. This has&nbsp;apparently been done in adherence to their strict interpretation of Islamic law.

The Taliban's rapid and unexpected takeover of Afghanistan after a 20-year insurgency against US-led forces has created significant challenges and uncertainties for Afghanistan's education system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/selective-whatsapp-ban-curtails-talibans-functioning-in-afghanistan-605747">Selective WhatsApp ban on hardliners hits Taliban's functioning in Afghanistan</a>

For long, international organisations have played a significant role in education projects in Afghanistan. UNICEF currently operates numerous community-based classes, including those catering to 300,000 girls, often held in rural homes.

As per Reuters, UNICEF reached an agreement with the Taliban to operate community classes before their takeover. However, this month, two "humanitarian sources" informed the news agency that aid agencies had been informed that provincial authorities were directed to exclude international organisations from education projects. This could possibly happen within a few weeks.

The move, if implemented, can be a significant setback. A United Nations spokesperson in New York described the move as a "horrendous step backwards."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is holding discussions with Afghanistan rulers, the Taliban regarding the "timelines and practicalities" of a potential handover of its education programs to local organisations.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is holding discussions with Afghanistan rulers, the Taliban regarding the "timelines and practicalities" of a potential handover of its education programs to local organisations. As per UNICEF, it has received assurances from the education ministry that community-based classes, which educate 500,000 students, would continue while these discussions took place. Participation of international organisations in education As per Reuters, aid officials say that the Taliban has indicated that international organisations could no longer be involved in education projects. The move which has been criticised by UNICEF is yet to be officially confirmed by Afghan authorities. Speaking to Reuters, UNICEF's Afghanistan spokesperson, Samantha Mort expressed appreciation for the commitment from the de facto minister to ensure classes continue during discussions. Also read | Taliban selling tickets to ruins of iconic Bamian Buddhas it blasted two decades ago "As the lead agency for the education cluster in Afghanistan, UNICEF is engaged in constructive discussions with the de facto Ministry of Education and appreciates the commitment from the de facto minister to keep all ... classes continuing while discussions take place about timelines and practicalities," said Mort. She emphasised that "In order to minimise disruption to children's learning, it is imperative that any handover to national NGOs is done strategically and includes comprehensive assessment and capacity building." The Ministry of Education has not publicly confirmed the reported policy change. Taliban and Education in Afghanistan Since assuming power in 2021, the Taliban has closed most secondary schools for girls, prevented female students from attending universities, and restricted the participation of Afghan women in aid groups and the United Nations. This has apparently been done in adherence to their strict interpretation of Islamic law. The Taliban's rapid and unexpected takeover of Afghanistan after a 20-year insurgency against US-led forces has created significant challenges and uncertainties for Afghanistan's education system. Also read | Selective WhatsApp ban on hardliners hits Taliban's functioning in Afghanistan For long, international organisations have played a significant role in education projects in Afghanistan. UNICEF currently operates numerous community-based classes, including those catering to 300,000 girls, often held in rural homes. As per Reuters, UNICEF reached an agreement with the Taliban to operate community classes before their takeover. However, this month, two "humanitarian sources" informed the news agency that aid agencies had been informed that provincial authorities were directed to exclude international organisations from education projects. This could possibly happen within a few weeks. The move, if implemented, can be a significant setback. A United Nations spokesperson in New York described the move as a "horrendous step backwards." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban to stop involvement of international organisations in education projects: Report

Standing firm against recognising Afghan rulers&nbsp;Taliban, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday said that Washington is working to free several Americans detained in Afghanistan and to assist 44 others trying to leave the nation. Speaking before congress Blinken said Taliban authorities were detaining "several Americans" and that they "are working to secure their freedom. Their families have asked that we protect their identities and don't speak publicly to their cases," he added.

The top American diplomat further said that the US State Department has already assisted 975 US citizens to leave Afghanistan. Another 175 US citizens remain in the country, 42 of which are ready to leave, and as per Blinken they "are working to effectuate their departure."

As per an AFP report citing a State Department spokesperson, the 975 people mentioned by Blinken were people whose departure was facilitated by the government. Apart from them, other US citizens and permanent residents have left the country independently, added the spokesperson.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-schools-start-without-classes-as-students-remain-unaware-girls-barred-574390">Afghanistan: Schools start without classes as students remain unaware, girls barred</a>

Since the Taliban swept back into power, the group has gradually reintroduced restrictions, mainly affecting women. These rules have prompted global outrage and protests inside Afghanistan.

Edicts against women run "fundamentally against the interests of the Afghan people besides being wrong," said Blinken.

"We've been very clear, to the extent the Taliban is looking for any kind of more normal relationship with any country around the world. If this continues, this is simply not going to happen," he added.

As of yet, no nation has recognised the Taliban government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-to-target-nepotism-leader-asks-officials-to-sack-relatives-given-government-jobs-573705">Taliban to target nepotism? Leader asks officials to sack relatives given government jobs</a>

The August 26, 2021 assault outside Kabul's airport was brought up during the congressional session by Representative Mike McCaul, the new Republican head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.&nbsp;

In the assault, which the Islamic State-Khorasan group claimed responsibility for, 13 US soldiers and about 170 Afghan civilians perished. McCaul has given Blinken until Monday to turn over a dissident cable written by US diplomats who had predicted the swift collapse of the Afghan government with the withdrawal.

Blinken vowed to assist in the sharing of information but added that only top State Department officials are given access to the entirety of dissent cables. He said that he wanted to "protect the integrity of the process to make sure we don't have a chilling effect on those who might want to come forward."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Standing firm against recognising Afghan rulers Taliban, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday said that Washington is working to free several Americans detained in Afghanistan and to assist 44 others trying to leave the nation.

Standing firm against recognising Afghan rulers Taliban, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday said that Washington is working to free several Americans detained in Afghanistan and to assist 44 others trying to leave the nation. Speaking before congress Blinken said Taliban authorities were detaining "several Americans" and that they "are working to secure their freedom. Their families have asked that we protect their identities and don't speak publicly to their cases," he added. The top American diplomat further said that the US State Department has already assisted 975 US citizens to leave Afghanistan. Another 175 US citizens remain in the country, 42 of which are ready to leave, and as per Blinken they "are working to effectuate their departure." As per an AFP report citing a State Department spokesperson, the 975 people mentioned by Blinken were people whose departure was facilitated by the government. Apart from them, other US citizens and permanent residents have left the country independently, added the spokesperson. Also read | Afghanistan: Schools start without classes as students remain unaware, girls barred Since the Taliban swept back into power, the group has gradually reintroduced restrictions, mainly affecting women. These rules have prompted global outrage and protests inside Afghanistan. Edicts against women run "fundamentally against the interests of the Afghan people besides being wrong," said Blinken. "We've been very clear, to the extent the Taliban is looking for any kind of more normal relationship with any country around the world. If this continues, this is simply not going to happen," he added. As of yet, no nation has recognised the Taliban government. Also read | Taliban to target nepotism? Leader asks officials to sack relatives given government jobs The August 26, 2021 assault outside Kabul's airport was brought up during the congressional session by Representative Mike McCaul, the new Republican head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. In the assault, which the Islamic State-Khorasan group claimed responsibility for, 13 US soldiers and about 170 Afghan civilians perished. McCaul has given Blinken until Monday to turn over a dissident cable written by US diplomats who had predicted the swift collapse of the Afghan government with the withdrawal. Blinken vowed to assist in the sharing of information but added that only top State Department officials are given access to the entirety of dissent cables. He said that he wanted to "protect the integrity of the process to make sure we don't have a chilling effect on those who might want to come forward." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US working to help dozens of Americans 'secure their freedom,' leave Afghanistan: Blinken

In Taliban 2.0's Afghanistan, women who had escaped the clutches of their abusive partners through divorce are being forced to return to their ex-husbands. Before the Taliban took over in 2021, women in the country were slowly and steadily gaining some semblance of rights; one of them was to divorce their abusive husbands. 
 
However, just as their right&nbsp;to education was&nbsp;taken away, new reports indicate that Afghan women's right to legal separate from abusive partners is also being snatched away. An AFP report further adds that previously divorced women are being forced to return to their ex-husbands, into homes where they face constant physical abuse.

One case cited in the report is that of a 40-year-old Afghan woman, who, along with her eight children, has been forced into hiding after the Taliban tore up her divorce decree. She had divorced her husband during the US-backed government regime.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;After education and employment, Taliban target private life

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However, once the Taliban took over, her husband claimed he was forced into a divorce and due to this, the current government's commanders forced her to return to the abusive marriage. Since then,&nbsp;she "endured a new round of beatings"&nbsp; at the hands of her husband, was locked away in the house, with her hands broken and fingers cracked.

To escape the beatings and the abuse, the woman, along with her six daughters and two sons, fled the&nbsp;home and had to assume fictitious names.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/one-killed-five-injured-after-bomb-explodes-during-award-ceremony-in-afghanistan-570888">One killed, five injured after bomb explodes during award ceremony in Afghanistan</a>

Similar cases are being reported from all over the country. 
 
In the country, nine of 10 women as per the UN Afghanistan mission face physical, sexual or psychological violence from their partner.

Speaking to AFP, Nazifa, a lawyer who previously handled around 100 divorce cases for abused wives, says women once used to blame their fate for whatever happened to them. But as awareness grew, they realised separating from abusive husbands was an option.

Now, under the Taliban, divorces are limited to when a husband was a classified drug addict or has left the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-taliban-governor-of-balkh-province-killed-in-blast-say-police-570177">Afghanistan: Taliban governor of Balkh province killed in suicide attack; IS claims responsibility</a>

"But in cases of domestic violence or when a husband does not agree to a divorce, then the court is not granting them," she added.

Since the closing of the Ministry of Women's Affairs and the Human Rights Commission, shelters that once supported abused women have closed.

Talking to AFP, a Taliban official said authorities would look into such cases where previously divorced women were being forced to return to their ex-husbands.

"If we receive such complaints, we will investigate them according to sharia," said Inayatullah, spokesman for the Taliban supreme court.

When asked about whether the Taliban would acknowledge divorces granted under the previous government, he remarked: "This is an important and complex issue." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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In Taliban 2.0's Afghanistan, women who had escaped the clutches of their abusive partners through divorce are being forced to return to their ex-husbands. Before the Taliban took over in 2021, women in the country were slowly and steadily gaining some semblance of rights; one of them was to divorce their abusive husbands.

In Taliban 2.0's Afghanistan, women who had escaped the clutches of their abusive partners through divorce are being forced to return to their ex-husbands. Before the Taliban took over in 2021, women in the country were slowly and steadily gaining some semblance of rights; one of them was to divorce their abusive husbands. However, just as their right to education was taken away, new reports indicate that Afghan women's right to legal separate from abusive partners is also being snatched away. An AFP report further adds that previously divorced women are being forced to return to their ex-husbands, into homes where they face constant physical abuse. One case cited in the report is that of a 40-year-old Afghan woman, who, along with her eight children, has been forced into hiding after the Taliban tore up her divorce decree. She had divorced her husband during the US-backed government regime. Watch | After education and employment, Taliban target private life However, once the Taliban took over, her husband claimed he was forced into a divorce and due to this, the current government's commanders forced her to return to the abusive marriage. Since then, she "endured a new round of beatings" at the hands of her husband, was locked away in the house, with her hands broken and fingers cracked. To escape the beatings and the abuse, the woman, along with her six daughters and two sons, fled the home and had to assume fictitious names. Also read | One killed, five injured after bomb explodes during award ceremony in Afghanistan Similar cases are being reported from all over the country. In the country, nine of 10 women as per the UN Afghanistan mission face physical, sexual or psychological violence from their partner. Speaking to AFP, Nazifa, a lawyer who previously handled around 100 divorce cases for abused wives, says women once used to blame their fate for whatever happened to them. But as awareness grew, they realised separating from abusive husbands was an option. Now, under the Taliban, divorces are limited to when a husband was a classified drug addict or has left the country. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban governor of Balkh province killed in suicide attack; IS claims responsibility "But in cases of domestic violence or when a husband does not agree to a divorce, then the court is not granting them," she added. Since the closing of the Ministry of Women's Affairs and the Human Rights Commission, shelters that once supported abused women have closed. Talking to AFP, a Taliban official said authorities would look into such cases where previously divorced women were being forced to return to their ex-husbands. "If we receive such complaints, we will investigate them according to sharia," said Inayatullah, spokesman for the Taliban supreme court. When asked about whether the Taliban would acknowledge divorces granted under the previous government, he remarked: "This is an important and complex issue." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban cancel all divorces, force women to go back into the clutches of abusive ex-husbands

The United Nations on Monday pleaded with Afghanistan rulers and Taliban to provide more exemptions to its ban on female aid workers. Martin Griffiths talked of the vital role women play in the massive effort to support struggling Afghans.

Speaking of the "savage" winter plaguing Afghans, the UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief said, "last winter, we managed to survive. I don't know if we can do this indefinitely, not with these bans."

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban underscores its resistance against women's education

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Addressing the press after a visit to Kabul, Griffiths said "We were told that guidelines are being developed by the Taliban authorities, which would allegedly provide the role of functioning of women in humanitarian operations".

However, he sceptically added, "let's see if these guidelines do come through. Let's see if they are beneficial. Let's see what space there is for the essential and central role of women in our humanitarian operations."

Since January 1, Afghanistan has been frozen by cold weather, with temperatures plunging to as low as -33 degrees Celsius (-27 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-ban-women-from-taking-university-entrance-exams-556912">Now, Taliban ban Afghan girls from appearing in university entrance exams</a>

The low temperatures come with widespread snowfall, icy gales and regular electricity outages.&nbsp;

In the poverty-stricken nation, at least 166 people have died due to the bitterly cold weather.

As per AFP, nearly 80,000 livestock, an important commodity for the struggling nation, have also perished in the cold.

Last month, the Taliban banned most female aid workers and also imposed a ban on female students attending universities. An earlier ban had stopped girls from attending high school.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-to-draw-guidelines-on-womens-aid-work-in-afghanistan-says-un-556043">Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official</a>

According to&nbsp;Griffiths, some exemptions to the female aid worker ban had been granted in health and education and there could be a possible exemption in agriculture. However, he added that much more was needed.

"I don't want any of us to have any illusions about the huge gravity of this situation," he said. "It's a potential death blow to many, many very important humanitarian programs in what we have described as one of the most difficult and priority areas for humanitarian assistance protection. If we don't get those exceptions and if they're not reinforced locally, then those activities won't happen, and this would be catastrophic. So the case has been made and we're waiting for the judge to come out with a verdict."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations on Monday pleaded with Afghanistan rulers and Taliban to provide more exemptions to its ban on female aid workers. Martin Griffiths talked of the vital role women play in the massive effort to support struggling Afghans.

The United Nations on Monday pleaded with Afghanistan rulers and Taliban to provide more exemptions to its ban on female aid workers. Martin Griffiths talked of the vital role women play in the massive effort to support struggling Afghans. Speaking of the "savage" winter plaguing Afghans, the UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief said, "last winter, we managed to survive. I don't know if we can do this indefinitely, not with these bans." Watch | Afghanistan: Taliban underscores its resistance against women's education Addressing the press after a visit to Kabul, Griffiths said "We were told that guidelines are being developed by the Taliban authorities, which would allegedly provide the role of functioning of women in humanitarian operations". However, he sceptically added, "let's see if these guidelines do come through. Let's see if they are beneficial. Let's see what space there is for the essential and central role of women in our humanitarian operations." Since January 1, Afghanistan has been frozen by cold weather, with temperatures plunging to as low as -33 degrees Celsius (-27 degrees Fahrenheit). Also read | Now, Taliban ban Afghan girls from appearing in university entrance exams The low temperatures come with widespread snowfall, icy gales and regular electricity outages. In the poverty-stricken nation, at least 166 people have died due to the bitterly cold weather. As per AFP, nearly 80,000 livestock, an important commodity for the struggling nation, have also perished in the cold. Last month, the Taliban banned most female aid workers and also imposed a ban on female students attending universities. An earlier ban had stopped girls from attending high school. Also read | Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official According to Griffiths, some exemptions to the female aid worker ban had been granted in health and education and there could be a possible exemption in agriculture. However, he added that much more was needed. "I don't want any of us to have any illusions about the huge gravity of this situation," he said. "It's a potential death blow to many, many very important humanitarian programs in what we have described as one of the most difficult and priority areas for humanitarian assistance protection. If we don't get those exceptions and if they're not reinforced locally, then those activities won't happen, and this would be catastrophic. So the case has been made and we're waiting for the judge to come out with a verdict." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In the face of a 'savage' winter, UN pleads with Taliban for exemptions to female aid workers

The United Nations on Wednesday said that some "time critical" programmes&nbsp;in Afghanistan will have to be temporarily stopped due to the Taliban's ban on women working in NGOs. The global agency warned that many other activities are also likely to be impacted due to the ban.

Calling on the group to reverse its ban, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths, the heads of UN agencies and several aid groups in a joint statement said that women's "participation in aid programmes is not negotiable and must continue".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UNSC denounces Taliban government's restrictions on women

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The statement also bears the signatures of heads of UNICEF, the World Food Programme, the World Health Organization, the UN Development Programme, and the UN high commissioners for refugees and human rights.

"Banning women from humanitarian work has immediate life-threatening consequences for all Afghans," said the statement adding that "already, some time-critical programmes have had to stop temporarily due to lack of female staff."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-ngos-suspend-operations-in-afghanistan-after-taliban-ban-female-employees-546512">Five NGOs suspend operations in Afghanistan after Taliban ban female employees</a>

"We cannot ignore the operational constraints now facing us as a humanitarian community," it said.&nbsp;

The ban on female aid workers was announced by the Taliban-led Afghanistan administration on Saturday and it follows a ban on women attending universities. Before that girls were stopped from attending school in March.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-urges-taliban-government-to-end-terrible-restrictions-on-women-547139">United Nations urges Taliban government to end 'terrible' restrictions on women</a>

Addressing the series of bans, the UN statement remarked "No country can afford to exclude half of its population from contributing to society."

In a separate statement, the leaders of 12 nations namely Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Britain, the United States and the EU have also urged the Taliban to reverse the ban on female aid workers and also allow women, girls to avail education.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations on Wednesday said that some "time critical" programmes in Afghanistan will have to be temporarily stopped due to the Taliban's ban on women working in NGOs.

The United Nations on Wednesday said that some "time critical" programmes in Afghanistan will have to be temporarily stopped due to the Taliban's ban on women working in NGOs. The global agency warned that many other activities are also likely to be impacted due to the ban. Calling on the group to reverse its ban, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths, the heads of UN agencies and several aid groups in a joint statement said that women's "participation in aid programmes is not negotiable and must continue". Watch | UNSC denounces Taliban government's restrictions on women The statement also bears the signatures of heads of UNICEF, the World Food Programme, the World Health Organization, the UN Development Programme, and the UN high commissioners for refugees and human rights. "Banning women from humanitarian work has immediate life-threatening consequences for all Afghans," said the statement adding that "already, some time-critical programmes have had to stop temporarily due to lack of female staff." Also read | Five NGOs suspend operations in Afghanistan after Taliban ban female employees "We cannot ignore the operational constraints now facing us as a humanitarian community," it said. The ban on female aid workers was announced by the Taliban-led Afghanistan administration on Saturday and it follows a ban on women attending universities. Before that girls were stopped from attending school in March. Also read | United Nations urges Taliban government to end 'terrible' restrictions on women Addressing the series of bans, the UN statement remarked "No country can afford to exclude half of its population from contributing to society." In a separate statement, the leaders of 12 nations namely Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Britain, the United States and the EU have also urged the Taliban to reverse the ban on female aid workers and also allow women, girls to avail education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan | UN halts 'time critical' programmes due to Taliban's ban on female aid workers

Gunmen opened fire on Monday (December 12) near a guest house popular with Chinese business visitors in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, an eye witness told the news agency AFP and also stated that a loud explosion was heard.

WION Dispatch: Armed men open fire in Kabul building housing Chinese nationals

Although women never enjoyed their basic rights fully in the recent decades of Afghanistan’s history, the Taliban have extended this inequality and suppression to the maximum extent. It has been more than 300 days that secondary school girls have been prohibited to attend school in Afghanistan. In the same way, the Taliban have shackled many women, who were even the sole breadwinners of families, from going to work and earning money.

Many other restrictions, like the travel ban, forcing hijab-wearing, and prevention of protests are imposed on women all over Afghanistan. All these limitations are instituted in a country where massive poverty, drought, committing suicide, and infectious diseases agonise it overwhelmingly. Nevertheless, observing the Taliban’s susceptibilities, we perceive that their inhumane obstacles and human rights violations not only do not come to an end but rather are expanded day by day.&nbsp;

Considering the above preamble, we ask ourselves why the Taliban and other religious fundamentalist groups have such a position toward women? Where are the roots of this idea? Why does the instrumental view of women not end?&nbsp;

In order to answer the above questions, there is no way but to examine their doctrinal roots. And since a long discussion is beyond the scope of this text, we will recall and explain some brief premises.&nbsp;

Imam Mohammad Ghazali, one of the greatest Muslim scholars, and philosophers determined his stance regarding women and says: The most convincing and solid statement about marriage is that marriage is a form of slavery. A woman is a man's slave, and therefore a woman's duty and responsibility is to obey her husband and respond to his every wish. As the Prophet of Islam himself said, a woman who has satisfied her husband until the time of her death, will go to heaven. &nbsp;(Imam Mohammad Ghazali, Ihya-ul-Alum-uddin, Volume 2, p. 64) … Likewise, Ghazali in Kimiai Saadat says: It is better for women to spin yarn at home, not to call their husband anything but good, and to wear hijab from their husband's acquaintances.&nbsp;

Relying on a kind of religious thought, the Taliban tries to manage all aspects of life, including the education of women, from a certain viewpoint. In this way of thinking, any diversity, including sexual diversity, cannot flourish and realize. They want to build a society based on male authority. Therefore, a kind of patriarchal tendency and insistence on the adaptation of religion-oriented values ​​has been observed in their actions and reactions.&nbsp;

Most philosophers of religion believe that all religions were invented and continued to exist as male-centric. The centrality of men can be examined in the sequence of prophets and religious elites. If we accept this view, we will have a clearer understanding of the Taliban's mentality as a religious-based group in their approach to women.&nbsp;

If we consider religion as a phenomenon, men benefit from the potential pleasure and central position. The Taliban as a religious group are an accurate example to clarify this speculation. The Taliban have appointed an acting government that does not even include a woman. If we assume the inclusion of a woman in this cabinet, at least the consequence of it, according to the Taliban, is moral corruption, the spread of prostitution, and the disrespect of men.&nbsp;

Hannah Arendt, the German philosopher, says: "I am a philosopher, but others don't consider me a philosopher." Indeed, she is considered one of the serious political philosophers of the 20th century; but it was men who thought Arendt’s dignity was lower than being a philosopher because of her being a woman. Not only religious knowledge and philosophy, but basically the production and reproduction of all knowledge and techniques have been monopolized by men since the beginning, and its interpretation has been done in a misogynistic way.&nbsp;

Is there hope?&nbsp;

The author thinks the Taliban still haven't gotten rid of the male-oriented and monopolistic view about freedom, science, education, and society management. According to him, the prevailing view of women is superficial, instrumental, gendered, and dualistic. A duality that considers men to be superior, and women to be inferior. This attitude is a kind of commodity vision of human beings. Like more valuable and less valuable goods. And in this thinking attitude, the woman takes second place. The consequences resulting from this perspective lead to moral degeneration, and the collapse of social norms. As minimum aftermath, it won't be long before a society devoid of moral ideals will emerge, it will overflow and the rapid current will drown it all.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Although women never enjoyed their basic rights fully in the recent decades of Afghanistan’s history, the Taliban have extended this inequality and suppression to the maximum extent.

Although women never enjoyed their basic rights fully in the recent decades of Afghanistan’s history, the Taliban have extended this inequality and suppression to the maximum extent. It has been more than 300 days that secondary school girls have been prohibited to attend school in Afghanistan. In the same way, the Taliban have shackled many women, who were even the sole breadwinners of families, from going to work and earning money. Many other restrictions, like the travel ban, forcing hijab-wearing, and prevention of protests are imposed on women all over Afghanistan. All these limitations are instituted in a country where massive poverty, drought, committing suicide, and infectious diseases agonise it overwhelmingly. Nevertheless, observing the Taliban’s susceptibilities, we perceive that their inhumane obstacles and human rights violations not only do not come to an end but rather are expanded day by day. Considering the above preamble, we ask ourselves why the Taliban and other religious fundamentalist groups have such a position toward women? Where are the roots of this idea? Why does the instrumental view of women not end? In order to answer the above questions, there is no way but to examine their doctrinal roots. And since a long discussion is beyond the scope of this text, we will recall and explain some brief premises. Imam Mohammad Ghazali, one of the greatest Muslim scholars, and philosophers determined his stance regarding women and says: The most convincing and solid statement about marriage is that marriage is a form of slavery. A woman is a man's slave, and therefore a woman's duty and responsibility is to obey her husband and respond to his every wish. As the Prophet of Islam himself said, a woman who has satisfied her husband until the time of her death, will go to heaven. (Imam Mohammad Ghazali, Ihya-ul-Alum-uddin, Volume 2, p. 64) … Likewise, Ghazali in Kimiai Saadat says: It is better for women to spin yarn at home, not to call their husband anything but good, and to wear hijab from their husband's acquaintances. Relying on a kind of religious thought, the Taliban tries to manage all aspects of life, including the education of women, from a certain viewpoint. In this way of thinking, any diversity, including sexual diversity, cannot flourish and realize. They want to build a society based on male authority. Therefore, a kind of patriarchal tendency and insistence on the adaptation of religion-oriented values has been observed in their actions and reactions. Most philosophers of religion believe that all religions were invented and continued to exist as male-centric. The centrality of men can be examined in the sequence of prophets and religious elites. If we accept this view, we will have a clearer understanding of the Taliban's mentality as a religious-based group in their approach to women. If we consider religion as a phenomenon, men benefit from the potential pleasure and central position. The Taliban as a religious group are an accurate example to clarify this speculation. The Taliban have appointed an acting government that does not even include a woman. If we assume the inclusion of a woman in this cabinet, at least the consequence of it, according to the Taliban, is moral corruption, the spread of prostitution, and the disrespect of men. Hannah Arendt, the German philosopher, says: "I am a philosopher, but others don't consider me a philosopher." Indeed, she is considered one of the serious political philosophers of the 20th century; but it was men who thought Arendt’s dignity was lower than being a philosopher because of her being a woman. Not only religious knowledge and philosophy, but basically the production and reproduction of all knowledge and techniques have been monopolized by men since the beginning, and its interpretation has been done in a misogynistic way. Is there hope? The author thinks the Taliban still haven't gotten rid of the male-oriented and monopolistic view about freedom, science, education, and society management. According to him, the prevailing view of women is superficial, instrumental, gendered, and dualistic. A duality that considers men to be superior, and women to be inferior. This attitude is a kind of commodity vision of human beings. Like more valuable and less valuable goods. And in this thinking attitude, the woman takes second place. The consequences resulting from this perspective lead to moral degeneration, and the collapse of social norms. As minimum aftermath, it won't be long before a society devoid of moral ideals will emerge, it will overflow and the rapid current will drown it all. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Opinion: The fate of women in the scope of Taliban ideology

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity.

On May 21, the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue ordered female presenters on all TV channels to cover their faces while presenting on-screen. The ministry called this a "final and non-negotiable verdict".

This follows a similar diktat that was issued on May 9, ordering women and older girls to cover themselves from head to toe, including their faces while in public. As per the decree, punishment for violation of this order will be inflicted on male family members.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-brings-back-blue-burkha-in-afghanistan-new-decree-sparks-concerns-477244/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs.

Not only that, but this step also poses a problem for the audience. For those who are hard of hearing or suffer from other hearing impediments, visual cues and lip-reading were one way of gaining information which will now be curtailed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-female-tv-presenters-cover-faces-after-new-taliban-rule-481456">Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule</a>

In response to this order, a social media campaign #FreeHerFace has also gained traction. It features not only male presenters, but also people from all walks of life submitting selfies/photos with the hashtag to show solidarity.

As one Twitter user wrote "Afghan men showing up for Afghan women is not just a gesture. It’s a turn in the story that will change everything. Brave brothers."

<img alt="As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c686a5-503c-433e-9f0c-d962f7a3d6be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_130.jpg" />

When it took over the country in August of last year, the Taliban appeared to have softened its restrictions, establishing no clothing code for women.

However, in recent weeks, they have made a sudden, hard-line pivot, confirming rights groups' worst worries.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-want-to-erase-women-from-public-life-in-afghanistan-malala-yousafzai-477746">Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai</a>

During the Taliban's first term in office, from 1996 to 2001, they imposed severe restrictions on women, including making them wear the burqa, which even covered their eyes with a mesh. They also prohibited them from participating in public life and receiving an education.

Take a look at some tweets from #FreeHerFace campaign:

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In solidarity with Afghan women journalists, our male colleagues wore masks <a href="https://twitter.com/dwnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dwnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Freeherface</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UN_Women?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN_Women</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hrw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hrw</a> <a href="https://t.co/51FZvypOBf">pic.twitter.com/51FZvypOBf</a>
— Shabnam Alokozay (@dwalokozai) <a href="https://twitter.com/dwalokozai/status/1528727475815079937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A solidarity with Afghan journalist <a href="https://t.co/kYtL32Qu53">pic.twitter.com/kYtL32Qu53</a>
— Shahid Jan (@shahidjan612) <a href="https://twitter.com/shahidjan612/status/1528833156492967936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> is at war and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghan</a> women are on the frontline. Ordering <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghan</a> female journalists to cover their faces on-air is yet another step towards making women invisible and unheard. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#freeherface</a> <a href="https://t.co/CIFuoH7eeN">pic.twitter.com/CIFuoH7eeN</a>
— Nazifa Alizada (@AlizadaNazifa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlizadaNazifa/status/1528825478508838912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Since the Taliban have ordered female Afghan TV presenters to cover their faces while on air, members of DW Dari/Pashto service gathered today for a group photo in a show of solidarity, with male colleagues wearing masks as a statement. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeHerFace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeHerFace</a> <a href="https://t.co/B0lneRpnyZ">pic.twitter.com/B0lneRpnyZ</a>
— DW Deutsche Welle (@DeutscheWelle) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeutscheWelle/status/1528748837728309252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A small gesture of solidarity with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afghanwomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afghanwomen</a> and the brave Afghan journalists standing up for their rights <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freeherface?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#freeherface</a> <a href="https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms">https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms</a> <a href="https://t.co/pEJHAv6TfF">pic.twitter.com/pEJHAv6TfF</a>
— Andrew North (@NorthAndrew) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthAndrew/status/1528681790650601475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity.

Just a few days after Afghanistan's Taliban leaders issued a decree ordering women journalists to cover their faces on-air, their male colleagues have donned masks in solidarity. On May 21, the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue ordered female presenters on all TV channels to cover their faces while presenting on-screen. The ministry called this a "final and non-negotiable verdict". This follows a similar diktat that was issued on May 9, ordering women and older girls to cover themselves from head to toe, including their faces while in public. As per the decree, punishment for violation of this order will be inflicted on male family members. Watch | Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns As per Human Rights Watch, the rule blatantly ignores women's right to freedom of expression, personal autonomy and religious beliefs. Not only that, but this step also poses a problem for the audience. For those who are hard of hearing or suffer from other hearing impediments, visual cues and lip-reading were one way of gaining information which will now be curtailed. Also read | Afghan female TV presenters cover faces after new Taliban rule In response to this order, a social media campaign #FreeHerFace has also gained traction. It features not only male presenters, but also people from all walks of life submitting selfies/photos with the hashtag to show solidarity. As one Twitter user wrote "Afghan men showing up for Afghan women is not just a gesture. It’s a turn in the story that will change everything. Brave brothers." When it took over the country in August of last year, the Taliban appeared to have softened its restrictions, establishing no clothing code for women. However, in recent weeks, they have made a sudden, hard-line pivot, confirming rights groups' worst worries. Also read | Taliban want to erase women from public life in Afghanistan: Malala Yousafzai During the Taliban's first term in office, from 1996 to 2001, they imposed severe restrictions on women, including making them wear the burqa, which even covered their eyes with a mesh. They also prohibited them from participating in public life and receiving an education. Take a look at some tweets from #FreeHerFace campaign: In solidarity with Afghan women journalists, our male colleagues wore masks @dwnews #Afghanistan #Freeherface @UN_Women @hrw pic.twitter.com/51FZvypOBf — Shabnam Alokozay (@dwalokozai) May 23, 2022 × A solidarity with Afghan journalist pic.twitter.com/kYtL32Qu53 — Shahid Jan (@shahidjan612) May 23, 2022 × #Afghanistan is at war and #Afghan women are on the frontline. Ordering #Afghan female journalists to cover their faces on-air is yet another step towards making women invisible and unheard. #freeherface pic.twitter.com/CIFuoH7eeN — Nazifa Alizada (@AlizadaNazifa) May 23, 2022 × Since the Taliban have ordered female Afghan TV presenters to cover their faces while on air, members of DW Dari/Pashto service gathered today for a group photo in a show of solidarity, with male colleagues wearing masks as a statement. #FreeHerFace pic.twitter.com/B0lneRpnyZ — DW Deutsche Welle (@DeutscheWelle) May 23, 2022 × A small gesture of solidarity with #afghanwomen and the brave Afghan journalists standing up for their rights #freeherface https://t.co/nOJer7x3Ms pic.twitter.com/pEJHAv6TfF — Andrew North (@NorthAndrew) May 23, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

#FreeHerFace: Afghan male journalists stand in solidarity with their female colleagues

Taliban has ruled that all Afghan women must cover their faces with all-encompassing burkha and if any woman violates the order then her father or closest relative male will be either imprisoned or will be fired from their government jobs.

Taliban brings back Blue Burkha in Afghanistan, new decree sparks concerns

In Afghanistan patriarchal traditions, poverty and, lack of education have stifled women's rights for decades. Here's a heart-wrenching ordeal of a 22-year-old woman married off as a mere child. She is now living in one of the few shelters for battered women that still exists in Afghanistan under the Taliban's rule. This is her story of abuse, torture, and sorrow.

Poverty, lack of education hampers women's rights in Afghanistan