Women “are not property”, but… – The new Taliban decree is divisive

Debate sparks women’s rights decree issued today by the Taliban government in AfghanistanAccording to this, women should not be considered “property” and should give their consent to a marriage. However, no reference is made to women’s access to education or their ability to work outside the home.

The Taliban have come under pressure from the international community, which has “frozen” most funds for Afghanistan, to commit to respecting women’s rights since the hardline Islamist group took power in the country on August 15.

“Woman is not property, but a noble and free human being, no one can give it to anyone in return peace… or the end of hostility, “said a Taliban decree issued by spokesman Zabihullah Mujahideen.

The decree sets out the rules governing marriage and property for women, stating that women should not be forced into marriage and widows should have a share in the property of their deceased husband.

The courts should take the rules into account when making decisions and the ministries of religious affairs and information should promote these rights, in accordance with the decree.

However, there is no mention of women being able to work or access out-of-home facilities or education, issues of great concern to the international community.

During their previous rule, from 1996 to 2001, the Taliban barred women from leaving the house unaccompanied by a male relative and without having their face and head fully covered, and girls being educated.

The γ changed Taliban

The Taliban they say they have changed and in some provinces secondary schools for girls have been allowed to open. Yet many women and rights activists retain their reservations.

The international community, which has “frozen” billions in central bank funds and development resources, has highlighted women’s rights as a key element in any future commitment to Afghanistan.

The country, which is also facing a liquidity crisis in its banks as cash runs out due to sanctions, is also facing the risk of economic collapse since the Taliban took power.

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