Taliban Prohibits Books Authored by Women from Afghan Universities
The Taliban government has implemented a sweeping ban on books authored by women in Afghanistan’s university system, marking a significant escalation in restrictions on education and academic freedom. This decree, which also prohibits the teaching of human rights and sexual harassment, affects a total of 680 books deemed “in conflict” with the Taliban’s interpretation of Sharia law. Among the banned titles are 140 written by women, including educational texts like “Safety in the Chemical Laboratory.” This latest move is part of a broader trend of tightening control over educational content since the Taliban regained power four years ago.
Impact on Women’s Education
The recent ban on women’s books is a continuation of the Taliban’s restrictive policies that have severely limited educational opportunities for women and girls. Since the Taliban’s return to power, women have been barred from pursuing education beyond the sixth grade. This has left many without access to higher education or vocational training. The closure of midwifery courses in late 2024 further underscores the diminishing avenues for women to gain professional skills. The new guidelines specifically target subjects related to women, with six of the eighteen banned courses focusing on topics such as Gender and Development and Women’s Sociology. This systematic exclusion highlights the Taliban’s ongoing efforts to suppress women’s voices and contributions in academia.
Details of the Book Ban
The Taliban’s decree includes a comprehensive list of banned books, which was issued in late August. A committee member confirmed to BBC Afghan that all books authored by women are now prohibited from being taught in universities. Ziaur Rahman Aryubi, the deputy academic director of the Taliban’s Ministry of Higher Education, stated that the decisions were made by a panel of religious scholars and experts. The ban also extends to books by Iranian authors or publishers, with officials claiming it aims to prevent “the infiltration of Iranian content” into Afghan education. The extensive list includes 679 titles, of which 310 are linked to Iranian writers or publications, raising concerns about the impact on academic discourse in Afghanistan.
Concerns from Educators
Educators in Afghanistan are expressing deep concerns about the implications of the book ban on the country’s academic landscape. A professor from Kabul University, who requested anonymity, noted that the removal of Iranian literature creates a significant gap in the curriculum, as these works often serve as vital connections to the global academic community. In light of the restrictions, many educators are now forced to create their own teaching materials, which raises questions about whether these resources can meet international academic standards. The challenges posed by the ban not only hinder the quality of education but also threaten to isolate Afghan universities from global scholarship.
Official Response and Future Implications
The Taliban government maintains that its policies align with its interpretation of Afghan culture and Islamic law, claiming to respect women’s rights within that framework. However, the reality on the ground suggests a stark contrast, as the educational landscape becomes increasingly restrictive. The BBC has reached out to the Taliban’s Ministry of Education for comments regarding the recent developments, but the response remains pending. As the situation evolves, the long-term implications for education and women’s rights in Afghanistan remain uncertain, with many fearing a continued decline in academic freedom and opportunities for future generations.
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