The Taliban’s Latest Move: Banning Windows that Overlook Women’s Spaces

A New Era of Restrictions for Afghan Women

Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, women have been progressively erased from public spaces. The latest decree from the Taliban’s supreme leader has taken this erasure to a new level, banning the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook areas used by Afghan women. Existing windows that provide a view into these areas are also to be blocked.

The Decree: A Veiled Attempt to Control Women’s Lives

According to a statement released by the Taliban government spokesman, new buildings should not have windows that allow a view into “the courtyard, kitchen, neighbour’s well and other places usually used by women”. The decree claims that seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards, or collecting water from wells can lead to “obscene acts”.

Municipal Authorities to Monitor Construction Sites

Municipal authorities and other relevant departments will be responsible for monitoring construction sites to ensure that it is not possible to see into neighbours’ homes. In the event that such windows exist, owners will be encouraged to build a wall or obstruct the view “to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours”.

A Step Backwards for Women’s Rights

This latest decree is just the latest in a series of restrictions imposed on women by the Taliban. Since their return to power, women have been banned from post-primary education, restricted in their employment, and blocked from accessing parks and other public places. A recent law even prohibits women from singing or reciting poetry in public, and encourages them to “veil” their voices and bodies outside the home. Some local radio and television stations have also stopped broadcasting female voices.

The Taliban’s Claim: Islamic Law Guarantees Women’s Rights

The Taliban administration claims that Islamic law “guarantees” the rights of Afghan men and women. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Women are being progressively erased from public spaces, and their rights are being restricted in ways that are both draconian and oppressive.

Conclusion

The Taliban’s latest decree is just the latest example of their attempts to control and restrict the lives of Afghan women. It is a stark reminder of the need for international pressure to be applied to the Taliban to ensure that women’s rights are respected and protected. The world must not stand idly by as Afghan women are erased from public spaces and their rights are restricted in ways that are both oppressive and inhumane.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of the Taliban’s decree banning windows that overlook women’s spaces?
A: The decree claims that seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards, or collecting water from wells can lead to “obscene acts”.

Q: What are the consequences for owners of buildings with windows that provide a view into women’s spaces?
A: Owners will be encouraged to build a wall or obstruct the view “to avoid nuisances caused to neighbours”.

Q: What are the broader implications of the Taliban’s decree for women’s rights in Afghanistan?
A: The decree is just the latest example of the Taliban’s attempts to control and restrict the lives of Afghan women. It is a stark reminder of the need for international pressure to be applied to the Taliban to ensure that women’s rights are respected and protected.