Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue Harnesses Power to Suppress Afghan Women, Sparking International Outrage
severe restrictions on women's freedom and rights under Afghanistan's Taliban government, includes the requirement to cover their faces in public and being barred from public spaces like parks, jobs, and universities. It also highlights global outrage and calls for accountability, as well as the Taliban's defense of their measures based on Sharia law. The article raises concerns about the future of women in Afghanistan and the need for continued advocacy for their rights.;
In Afghanistan, women are facing severe restrictions on their freedom and rights under the Taliban government. A spokesperson for the Taliban's Ministry of Vice and Virtue recently stated that women must keep their faces covered when outside the home and that their value decreases if men can see their uncovered faces in public.
These restrictions have led to women being barred from most public spaces, including parks, jobs, and universities. According to Molvi Mohammad Sadiq Akif, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, the visibility of women's faces in public can lead to fitna, or falling into sin.
He argues that women's faces should be hidden as it is part of Islamic teachings and shows respect for women. However, these restrictions have sparked global outrage and have been criticized by the international community.
UN special envoy Gordon Brown has called for the International Criminal Court to prosecute Taliban leaders for crimes against humanity, including denying education and employment to Afghan girls and women. Despite these calls for accountability, Akif did not address whether any of the bans could be lifted if there was universal adherence to hijab rules.
Akif defended the ministry's measures by stating that they are implementing Sharia law, which was issued 1,400 years ago. He claimed that under the current administration, men no longer harass or stare at women like they did before. The Taliban government also claims to have eradicated the practice of bacha bazi, where wealthy or powerful men exploit boys for entertainment.
The Ministry of Vice and Virtue closely monitors compliance with their regulations through a network of officials and informants. They walk in markets, public places, and educational institutions to ensure that people follow their rules.
Women are strictly forbidden from entering ministry premises, with only a female-only security screening hut available. While Akif stated that women can participate in sports, visit parks, and engage in physical activities, there are certain conditions that need to be met.
Specifically, women can only go to parks if there are no men present, as Sharia Law does not allow for mixed-gender interactions. These severe restrictions on women's rights and freedom have caused concern and condemnation worldwide.
The Taliban's implementation of such measures has raised questions about the future of women in Afghanistan and their ability to live full and equal lives.The international community continues to advocate for the rights and empowerment of Afghan women in the face of these oppressive policies.