The Taliban publish vice laws that ban women’s voices and bare faces in public
NBCAug 24
Afghanistan: Taliban Bans Women from Hearing Each Other While Praying
Above: In this picture taken on Aug. 9, 2022, an Afghan woman walks with schoolgirls going to their primary school in Kabul. Image copyright: Wail Kohsar/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Khalid Hanafi, the Taliban's minister for the propagation of virtue and prevention of vice, has banned women from performing Takbir — an Islamic prayer — or reciting the Quran aloud in the presence of other women.
In an audio clip released Oct. 26, Hanafi said women aren't allowed to utter terms like "Alhamdulillah" or "Subhanallah" to other women during prayer. Additionally, women who aren't performing Takbir have been forbidden to sing.
The Spin
Narrative A
The Taliban's new laws are necessary to promote virtue and eliminate vice in Afghan society. These regulations align with Islamic principles and will help maintain moral standards. The ministry's efforts are crucial for guiding citizens toward righteous behavior and preserving cultural values.
Narrative B
These draconian laws are a severe violation of human rights. The Taliban's actions contradict their initial promises of inclusivity and demonstrate a regression in Afghan society. International pressure and sanctions are needed to protect the rights and freedoms of Afghan citizens, especially women.