The Taliban has issued a decree permitting limited domestic violence and imposing harsh penalties for various offenses, drawing strong condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations.
The Taliban has issued a decree allowing men to physically discipline their wives provided no bones are broken or visible wounds are left, according to a translated document circulated by Afghan rights groups. The code, reportedly enacted last month, also prescribes the death penalty for crimes including sodomy and heresy, and sets prison terms and lashes for insulting Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. Rights activists say the decree formalizes practices that have been widespread since the group returned to power in 2021.
Human rights campaigners and UN officials have strongly condemned the move, warning it further entrenches gender-based discrimination in Afghanistan. Volker Türk described the measures as legitimizing violence against women and children, while local activists say restrictions on women’s movement and legal testimony will make it nearly impossible for victims to seek justice. The Taliban maintains that its rulings are consistent with its interpretation of Islamic law.