The Taliban authorities in Kabul have recently announced the codification of laws that detail strict rules of behavior and lifestyle based on their interpretation of Islamic law. This 35-article law, published in the official gazette on July 31, establishes prohibitions that are already known in the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, but its enactment could lead to increased control over the population.
The justice ministry, in a statement on its website, announced that the law had been approved by the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, who rules by decree from Kandahar. The Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, with their white-coat wearing personnel, are responsible for enforcing the law and have been a common sight on Afghan streets since the Taliban came to power in 2021.
The law covers a wide range of issues, including social interactions, private lives, and style of dress. The Taliban government has indicated that the morality police will play a larger role in enforcing religious law in Afghanistan, which has raised concerns about a „climate of fear“ according to a UN report published in July.
Specific provisions in the law include requirements for Muslim women to cover their faces and bodies when around men who are not mahrams, as well as non-Muslim women. Men are instructed not to wear shorts above the knee or trim their beards too closely. Vehicle drivers are prohibited from playing music, using drugs, or transporting unveiled women or women without a mahram present.
The law also bans homosexuality, missing prayers, adultery, gambling, animal fighting, disobeying parents, and creating or viewing images of living beings on electronic devices. Media outlets are required to avoid publishing content that is hostile to Sharia law and religion, humiliates Muslims, or depicts living beings.
Punishments for non-compliance with the law are outlined, including verbal warnings, threats, fines, arrest for up to three days, or other punishments as determined by the morality police. Repeat offenders may be referred to the courts for further action.
The publication of this law in the official gazette signals the Taliban’s continued efforts to impose their strict interpretation of Islamic law on the population of Afghanistan. The enforcement of these laws by the morality police raises concerns about the erosion of personal freedoms and the potential for increased control over individuals‘ daily lives. As the Taliban government solidifies its authority, the impact of these laws on the people of Afghanistan remains to be seen.