The Taliban have announced the closure of all nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in Afghanistan that employ women. This decision comes two years after a directive was issued to suspend Afghan women’s employment in NGOs over allegations of improper wearing of the Islamic headscarf. The Economy Ministry issued a warning via a letter published on a social media platform, stating that failure to comply with the order would result in NGOs losing their licenses to operate in the country. The ministry emphasized its authority over the registration, coordination, and supervision of all activities by national and foreign organizations.
The government has reiterated its stance against female employment in institutions not under Taliban control, threatening to cancel the operational licenses of non-compliant NGOs. This move is part of ongoing efforts by the Taliban to exert control over NGO activities. Recently, the United Nations Security Council was informed about increasing restrictions on female Afghan humanitarian workers, despite the critical need for relief work.
Furthermore, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has mandated new building regulations to prevent windows from overlooking areas where women are present. The decree requires that views into spaces such as yards or kitchens be obscured, compelling property owners to install walls, fences, or screens.
This latest directive is part of a broader series of restrictions that have already barred Afghan women from numerous jobs and public spaces and excluded them from education beyond the sixth grade. The Taliban continue to deny accusations of hindering the operations of aid agencies, maintaining that they do not interfere with or obstruct their work.
