Taliban’s new decree targets ‘immoral’ Afghan TV show featuring women
Highlight
- New policy prohibits television stations from showing men who are believed to be exposed indecently
- The guidelines prohibit airing of satirical shows that “insult” or bring down the “dignity” of individuals
- Going against all promises of an inclusive government, the Taliban has already appointed a men’s cabinet.
In another blow to women’s rights in Afghanistan, the Taliban on Sunday ordered television channels to shut down shows featuring female actors and said female writers must wear the hijab in accordance with the group’s interpretation of Islamic law. US broadcaster Voice of America (VOA) reported that the order is part of new guidelines issued by the ministry for the prevention of virtuous or moral policing.
One of the eight directives issued by the Ministry of Virtue states that films and plays should not have female actors.
The new policy prohibits television stations from showing men who are considered indecently exposed or are not covered from chest to knees, the report said.
The Taliban defended the directive, saying it aimed to counter propaganda of “immorality” and broadcast videos that were “against Sharia principles.”
“Foreign and locally produced films that promote foreign culture and traditions in Afghanistan and promote immorality should not be aired,” the ministry said.
The guidelines also prohibit airing of satirical shows that “insult” or bring down the “dignity” of individuals.
The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in mid-August after a decade-long war that plunged the country into a prolonged humanitarian, security and economic crisis.
Going against all promises of an inclusive government, the Taliban has appointed an all-male cabinet.
They abolished the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and handed over the Women’s Ministry building to the restored Deputy and Virtue Ministry, which was responsible for some of the worst abuses against women during the Taliban’s previous period in power from 1996–2001. .
Last week, the United Nations called for a more inclusive government in Afghanistan as the country has seen a reduction in the fundamental rights of women and girls under the Taliban regime.
Deborah Lyons, United Nations Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said, “These range from limiting the right to work to the absence of women from key decision-making forums and senior areas of the civil service.” Huh.”
(with inputs from ANI)
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