The Taliban-controlled government continues to tighten restrictions aimed at isolating women in Afghanistan. Not so long ago, a new decree was introduced, according to which it is not allowed to build windows in houses, through which private areas where women are can be seen. This includes yards, kitchens, and other areas often used by women for household chores. The reason for this decision, according to the leaders of the Taliban, is that the visibility of women in such domestic situations can contribute to "indecent actions."
This decree adds to the already existing numerous restrictions on women's rights, which were introduced after the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan in August 2021. As the authorities emphasize, the new building standards are intended to protect women from "indecent views", but in practice they significantly limit their freedom of movement and social participation. According to the new decree, all new buildings must be designed without windows to allow outsiders to observe the areas where the women are. For old buildings, in case of detection of violations, requirements are established for the installation of walls or other barriers that guarantee the necessary privacy.
Municipal authorities and building departments must scrutinize all projects and supervise their implementation. In case of violation of the new rules, fines and mandatory measures to correct the situation are provided for. It should be noted that this decree is not an isolated case, but just another stage in the implementation of a policy that minimizes the public activity of women. In particular, in recent years, the Taliban has banned women from working in many fields, from visiting parks and gyms, and from getting an education after graduating from high school.
Such measures have drawn strong criticism from the international community, which calls on the Afghan government to respect human rights, including women's rights, and to end restrictions that violate their basic freedoms.
