UN Experts Condemn New Taliban Internet Restrictions in Afghanistan

UN Experts Condemn New Taliban Internet Restrictions in Afghanistan
—————————————
UN human rights experts have condemned the Taliban’s recent imposition of internet and social media restrictions across Afghanistan, declaring them violations of fundamental human rights, according to JURIST.

The restrictions, which began on October 7, specifically target major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. This move followed an earlier two-day, nationwide internet blackout from September 29 to October 1, and an even earlier fiber-optic shutdown in five northern provinces ordered by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.

The experts warn that restricting telecommunications services severely worsens Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic crisis, contributing to increased poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity. It also hinders the delivery of critical humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations, including those affected by natural disasters and forced returnees.

A central concern raised by the experts is the disproportionate impact on Afghan women. They stated that many women are heavily reliant on online platforms for education, remote work, business opportunities, and virtual social spaces. Given the systemic oppression and “gender apartheid” imposed by the Taliban, the internet has become a vital lifeline and often the “only light” for women seeking support and connection.

The UN experts called for the Taliban to comply with international obligations, stressing that any restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression and access to information must be necessary and proportionate, standards which the current actions fail to meet.