New Decree Adds to the Growing List of Restrictions on Afghan Women

The Taliban government has introduced new restrictions on Afghan women, forbidding them from reciting the Quran or praying loudly. This adds to existing constraints like limitations on education and work. The Vice and Virtue Ministry is enforcing these laws, which disproportionately affect women and girls.

A recent decree by the Taliban government further limits Afghan women's freedoms by prohibiting them from loudly praying or reciting the Quran in the presence of other women. The restriction is part of a series of morality laws that already hinder women's ability to participate in public life, education, and the workforce.

The Vice and Virtue Ministry is responsible for enforcing these regulations, although an immediate response from them was not available to clarify if these new rules would officially become part of the morality framework. Minister Khalid Hanafi emphasized the prohibition during an event in Logar province, stating the restrictions also extend to expressions central to Islamic faith.

The ministry has initiated a nationwide program aimed at raising awareness about the new laws. However, the ongoing enforcement of such decrees continues to attract criticism, especially given their disproportionate impact on women and girls, who face stringent dress codes and require male guardians when traveling.

(With inputs from agencies.)