Taliban wants women's hair and beauty salons shut in Afghanistan in brand-new diktat
The beauty salons for women in Afghanistan have been oredered to shut within a month. Photo: Getty
In another blow to women's rights in Afghanistan, the Taliban has issued an order requiring the closure of all hair and beauty salons across the country within a month.
The spokesperson for the Taliban's Virtue and Vice Ministry, Mohammad Sidik Akif Mahajar, confirmed on Tuesday (July 4) that the order was conveyed verbally on June 24 and had the approval of Taliban Supreme Leader, Hibatullah Akhunzada.
This decision comes shortly after Akhunzada expressed intentions to improve the lives of women in Afghanistan. This ban applies to the capital city of Kabul and all provinces, leaving salon owners with a strict deadline to cease operations and report their compliance to the authorities.
Why?
The reason behind this ban has not been officially stated by the government. However, it is believed to be rooted in the Shariah Islamic law, which the Taliban is using to impose restrictions on women.
The ban has a severe impact on working women who rely on these salons as their primary source of income. Some women have expressed frustration, questioning why they are being singled out and denied the right to work and live freely. Associated Press quoted one woman as criticizing the Taliban's order.
UN calls for reversal of the ban
The United Nations (UN) urges the Taliban to rescind the salon ban, which risks leaving thousands of women unemployed. UNAMA, the UN Mission in Afghanistan, is actively engaged with Afghan authorities to address this issue.
Women under Taliban rule
Since the Taliban assumed power in August 2021, women in Afghanistan have faced increasing restrictions on their rights. They are prohibited from visiting parks, gyms, and traveling alone.
Additionally, they are required to cover their bodies fully in public. Furthermore, the government closed universities, depriving girls of higher education opportunities.
These measures have drawn international condemnation, but the Taliban has disregarded these criticisms. The latest order to close down salons is expected to have a significant impact on the livelihoods and quality of life for Afghan women.