Decree states that “seeing women working in kitchens, courtyards can lead to obscene acts.”
Details
- New Order:
- The Taliban’s supreme leader issued a decree banning the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook areas where Afghan women typically work, such as kitchens, courtyards, or wells.
- Purpose of the Decree:
- Taliban officials argued that “seeing women working in kitchens, courtyards, or collecting water from wells could lead to obscene acts.” Therefore, buildings must ensure that windows do not allow neighbors to see into spaces used by women.
- Enforcement:
- Municipal authorities and relevant departments will monitor construction sites to ensure that such windows are not built, and existing ones must be blocked to prevent disturbances to neighbors.
- Restrictions and Women’s Role:
- Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, women have been increasingly erased from public spaces. The United Nations has condemned this as “gender apartheid” imposed by the Taliban government.
Conclusion
This decree is another step toward restricting women’s rights and freedoms, limiting their visibility in public and private spaces.
