Introduction

In a shocking announcement, the Taliban declared that all national and foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Afghanistan employing women will be shut down. This drastic move comes two years after the group initially directed NGOs to halt the employment of Afghan women, a decision claimed to be due to improper adherence to Islamic dress codes.

Warning to NGOs

On a recent Sunday, the Ministry of Economy issued a formal warning via X, stating that NGOs that do not comply with this new order risk losing their operational licenses in Afghanistan. This warning confirms the regime’s ongoing efforts to control and limit NGO activities, particularly those that benefit women.

Oversight by the Taliban

The ministry emphasized its role in overseeing all activities of both national and international organizations, asserting that failure to adhere to their directives would result in immediate cancellations of licenses and operations. This latest order marks yet another chapter in the Taliban's systematic suppression of women’s rights, amidst a backdrop of increasing humanitarian crises.

UN's Concern

The United Nations Security Council recently acknowledged the growing challenges faced by female humanitarian workers in Afghanistan, with reports indicating that more female staff members are being obstructed from performing their duties due to interference from the Taliban's morality police. Senior UN officials, including Tom Fletcher, have noted a troubling rise in restrictions impacting both male and female staff at humanitarian organizations.

Taliban's Denial

Despite these obstacles, the Taliban has denied any involvement in the disruption of aid agencies, asserting that they are not interfering with their work. However, the situation on the ground tells a different story, as the Taliban’s past actions have already seen women removed from a multitude of roles, educational opportunities beyond sixth grade, and public spaces.

New Decrees on Women's Visibility

In a separate yet equally alarming directive, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has ordered that no windows in buildings should face areas where women may congregate. As per a recent decree, newly constructed buildings, as well as those in existence, must be designed to prevent sight lines into private spaces like gardens or kitchens. Property owners are now required to obscure any intrusive views by erecting walls, fences, or screens, under the watchful eye of municipal authorities.

Conclusion

These developments underline a period of intensified repression for Afghan women under Taliban rule, raising global humanitarian concerns as the regime continues to enforce oppressive regulations that severely limit rights and freedoms. As the world watches, the plight of women in Afghanistan remains a critical issue that requires urgent international attention and action.