Taliban Imposes Ban on Images, Graphics on Book Covers in Herat

The Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has imposed a ban on images and graphics on book covers in Herat, Afghanistan, Amu TV reported. Local booksellers report being forced to cover their book covers with stickers to comply with this new directive, which has negatively impacted sales. Many believe that visual design is crucial for attracting readers, with one bookseller stating that about 80% of sales depend on cover images.

At a recent book exhibition, numerous books displayed had stickers obscuring their covers. Critics argue that this restriction undermines efforts to promote literacy, as appealing cover designs play a significant role in encouraging reading. Residents have voiced their concerns, emphasizing that both the title and cover image are essential for a book’s appeal.

Additionally, the Taliban has banned the sale of certain psychology and political books, continuing a trend of censorship that has affected cultural and educational spaces in the region.