(LibertySociety.com) – In a deeply concerning move, the Taliban have implemented a ban on windows in residential buildings that overlook areas frequented by Afghan women, raising expanded concerns over women’s rights in Afghanistan.
At a Glance
- Taliban bans construction of windows overlooking women’s areas.
- Existing windows must be obstructed to prevent “obscene acts.”
- The international community calls for diplomatic response.
- Taliban claims Islamic law guarantees the rights of Afghan men and women.
New Ban on Windows
The Taliban’s supreme leader has decreed a ban on the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook areas used by Afghan women. This action aims to prevent what the Taliban describes as potential “obscene acts” by ensuring such windows are removed or obscured. The implementation of this mandate consolidates the Taliban’s approach of controlling women’s visibility and engagement within public spaces.
This decree specifies that newly built structures should avoid having windows that overlook courtyards, kitchens, or wells where women are typically found. Municipal authorities have been given the task of overseeing construction sites to ensure compliance with these new regulations. Homeowners are encouraged to obstruct existing windows to adhere to the directive.
In Afghanistan, the Taliban have banned windows overlooking areas where women are present
The leader of the ruling Taliban terrorist organization has ordered that new houses be built without windows facing spaces used by women, such as kitchens or courtyards where women fetch… pic.twitter.com/792iywcMrL
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) December 30, 2024
Wider Context of Women’s Rights
Since the Taliban’s return to power, restrictions against women have intensified. Women have faced increasing bans from schools beyond the primary level, restricted from universities, and prohibited in public spaces like parks. These moves are seen as part of a broader campaign to erode women’s freedoms within the nation, drawing international criticism and concern.
“There is an ongoing, dangerous erosion of human rights protections, with women and girls bearing the brunt.” – Roza Otunbayeva
Furthermore, the United Nations has classified the Taliban’s actions as “gender apartheid,” while global human rights organizations emphasize the importance of maintaining international pressure to hold the Taliban accountable and protect women’s rights. Local media’s cessation of broadcasting female voices underpins the intense restrictions on women’s roles and visibility.
Global Response and Criticism
The international community has voiced concern over this ban. The United Nations and other global entities urge the Taliban to uphold the human rights of women as essential for Afghanistan’s future prosperity. The Taliban’s assertion that Islamic law “guarantees” the rights of Afghan citizens remains contested and heavily scrutinized by international observers.
“The Taliban administration claims that Islamic law guarantees the rights of Afghan men and women.” – Taliban administration
In this climate of uncertainty, the international response continues to evolve, with many countries, including the U.S., not officially recognizing the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. As global diplomatic efforts unfold, the future of Afghan women’s rights remains a topic of urgent international dialogue and action.
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