Women banned from speaking in public by Afghanistan's Taliban rulers | BBC News
BBC News・2 minutes read
A new law in Afghanistan, enforced by the Taliban's morality police, mandates that women fully cover themselves and restricts their voices in public, resulting in widespread fear and a significant decline in women's rights and freedoms. Despite claims that the laws align with Islamic Sharia and assurances regarding education, many women have effectively lost access to schooling and public life, while covert resistance efforts are met with increasing international skepticism toward the Taliban.
Insights
- The new law in Afghanistan, enforced by the Taliban's morality police, imposes severe restrictions on women's freedoms, requiring them to cover themselves completely in public and silencing their voices, which has created a pervasive atmosphere of fear and oppression that has dramatically curtailed their rights and daily activities.
- Despite claims from the Taliban that these laws align with Islamic Sharia and promises to address women's educational needs, there has been no real progress in allowing girls to return to school after three years, while some Afghan women are secretly resisting by establishing underground schools and participating in training programs, highlighting their resilience amidst increasing international skepticism towards the Taliban's governance.
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Recent questions
What is the meaning of Sharia law?
Sharia law refers to the legal framework derived from Islamic teachings, primarily based on the Quran and Hadith. It encompasses a wide range of regulations governing both personal conduct and community affairs, including aspects of morality, family law, and criminal justice. The interpretation and implementation of Sharia can vary significantly across different cultures and countries, leading to diverse practices and legal systems. In some regions, Sharia is integrated into national law, while in others, it may exist alongside secular legal systems. The application of Sharia often sparks debate, particularly regarding women's rights and freedoms, as interpretations can lead to restrictive measures that impact gender equality.
How can I support women's rights globally?
Supporting women's rights globally can be approached through various avenues, including advocacy, education, and direct action. Individuals can raise awareness about women's issues by sharing information on social media, participating in campaigns, or supporting organizations that focus on gender equality. Volunteering time or resources to local women's shelters or international NGOs can also make a significant impact. Additionally, engaging in conversations about women's rights within communities and encouraging others to take action can help foster a culture of support. Financial contributions to organizations that promote women's education, health, and legal rights can further empower women and girls worldwide, helping to dismantle systemic barriers they face.
What are the effects of oppression on women?
The effects of oppression on women are profound and multifaceted, impacting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Women living under oppressive regimes often experience heightened anxiety, fear, and a sense of entrapment, which can lead to mental health issues such as depression and PTSD. Their freedoms are curtailed, limiting access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, which perpetuates cycles of poverty and dependence. The social stigma associated with speaking out against oppression can silence voices and hinder collective action, making it difficult for women to advocate for their rights. Ultimately, oppression not only affects individual women but also stifles societal progress, as the contributions of half the population are marginalized and ignored.
What is the role of international relations in women's rights?
International relations play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of women's rights globally. Diplomatic efforts can either promote or hinder progress, depending on how countries engage with regimes that violate women's rights. For instance, international pressure and sanctions can compel governments to reconsider oppressive laws and practices. Conversely, neglecting women's rights in diplomatic discussions can lead to further marginalization and a lack of accountability for human rights abuses. Engaging with local women's rights activists in international forums is essential to ensure that their voices are heard and that their needs are prioritized. Ultimately, fostering strong international coalitions can amplify efforts to advance gender equality and hold oppressive regimes accountable.
What are secret schools for girls?
Secret schools for girls are clandestine educational institutions established in regions where formal education for girls is restricted or banned, often due to oppressive regimes. These schools operate underground to provide girls with the opportunity to learn and develop skills in a safe environment, away from the scrutiny of authorities. They are typically run by dedicated individuals or groups who are committed to promoting education and empowerment for girls despite the risks involved. The curriculum may include basic literacy, mathematics, and other subjects, aiming to equip girls with knowledge that can help them navigate their circumstances. These secret schools represent a form of resistance against oppressive laws and highlight the resilience and determination of women and girls to pursue education and assert their rights.
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Summary
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Afghan Women Face New Oppressive Law
- A new law in Afghanistan mandates that women must cover their face and body completely when leaving home, and their voices cannot be heard in public, creating an environment of fear and oppression. This law has been enforced by the Taliban's morality police, who have been granted extensive powers, leading to a significant decline in women's freedoms and rights.
- Women, including teenage girls, express feelings of entrapment and fear, stating that even basic activities like taking a bus or speaking loudly are fraught with anxiety. Many have lost three years of education due to restrictions, and the atmosphere of intimidation has silenced protests that previously occurred against the Taliban's regime.
- The Taliban government claims that the new laws are in accordance with Islamic Sharia and have been approved by the Supreme Leader. Despite assurances from Taliban officials about addressing women's educational needs, there has been no tangible progress in allowing girls to return to school after three years of being barred from education.
- Some Afghan women are taking covert actions to resist the oppressive regime, such as running secret schools for girls and participating in midwife training courses. However, international relations with the Taliban have soured due to the new law, leading to skepticism about the effectiveness of engaging with the Taliban after previous diplomatic efforts, including a UN meeting that excluded Afghan women's rights activists.
