Taliban recognises child marriage under new rules, with specific guidelines for ‘virgin girls’

The Taliban has introduced new family laws recognising child marriage, sparking concerns over women’s rights and legal protections in Afghanistan.

The Taliban has formally recognised child marriage under new family law regulations, according to Daily Mail.
The 31-page document titled “Principles of Separation Between Spouses” outlines rules governing marriage and divorce, including provisions on minors and “virgin girls.”

The regulation states that a child’s marriage is valid if arranged by relatives, provided conditions such as compatibility and dowry are met. It also introduces “khiyar al-bulugh,” allowing annulment after puberty through court approval.
The law further states that silence from a “virgin girl” is interpreted as consent, raising concerns about coercion. Judges are granted broad authority to enforce compliance, including imprisonment.

The rules come amid broader restrictions imposed by the Taliban since returning to power in 2021, including limits on girls’ education and women’s rights.

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