In Afghanistan, the perimeter of freedoms and rights for women, including men, is further restricted after the promulgation of a new restrictive law by the Taliban, who have been back in power for 3 years. The direction is clear from the title given to the legislative provision – for “promote virtue and prevent vice” among the population – in accordance with Sharia (Islamic law), the Taliban Ministry of Justice announced. The 35-article law, published in the Official Gazette, enacts prohibitions already generally known in the Islamic Emirate, but its promulgation is intended to strengthen the already tight control of the population. The text was approved by the Taliban supreme leader, The Invisible Emir Hibatullah Akhundzadawho rules Afghanistan by decree from his stronghold of Kandahar (south).
The powerful Ministry of Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice (Pvpv) will be responsible for implementing the text. It potentially controls all aspects of Afghan life, social and private, and ensures the ultra-strict application of Sharia.. The new text states that “women must cover their entire body in the presence of men who are not part of their family”, as well as their face “for fear of temptation”. This involves wearing a mask (anti-Covid type) over the mouth. The same applies if “women must leave the house for necessity”. Afghan women are not even supposed to make their voices heard in public, reciting songs and poems..
Similarly, bans have been issued for drivers of vehicles: no music, no drugs, no transporting women without a veil, women in the presence of men who are not members of their family, or women without a mahram, a male companion who is their relative. Among the bans cited are adultery, homosexuality, gambling, animal fighting, creating or displaying images of living beings on a computer or mobile phone, men without beards or with beards that are too short, and haircuts “contrary to Sharia law.” “Friendship” with “an infidel” – a non-Muslim – is prohibited, and the five daily prayers are obligatory.
As for the media, the law states that they must not publish “content that is hostile to Sharia law and religion,” or that “humiliates Muslims,” or “shows living beings.” The text provides for graduated sanctions for those who do not comply: verbal warning, threats, fine, police detention ranging from one hour to three days, or another sanction requested by the Pvpv. In case of repeat offenses, the matter will be referred to the courts.