What's happened
For the first time since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban has imposed a complete ban on cable internet in Balkh province, affecting government, private, and public sectors. Mobile internet remains operational. The ban aims to prevent immorality, with no clear timeline for lifting. The move raises concerns about economic and social impacts.
What's behind the headline?
The Taliban's decision to ban cable internet in Balkh signals a significant shift in their approach to controlling information and morality. This move will likely deepen economic isolation for local businesses that rely on stable internet for international trade and communication. The ban also underscores the Taliban's prioritization of moral enforcement over technological development, risking further international condemnation. The fact that mobile internet remains active suggests a selective approach, possibly aimed at maintaining some level of connectivity for security or propaganda purposes. This restriction could set a precedent for other provinces, further fragmenting Afghanistan's already limited digital infrastructure. The move also highlights the Taliban's focus on moral policing, which may intensify social restrictions and suppress dissent, impacting everyday life and economic activity in Balkh.
What the papers say
The New Arab, The Independent, and AP News all report on the same event, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the cable internet ban in Balkh since the Taliban's rise. The New Arab highlights the Taliban's justification of preventing immorality and the lack of clarity on whether the ban will extend elsewhere. The Independent echoes concerns about the impact on local businesses and the community's connectivity, with residents expressing confusion and frustration. AP News notes the security rationale behind suspending mobile networks during festivals but underscores that this is a broader, more permanent restriction on wired internet. While all sources agree on the core facts, The New Arab provides the most detailed explanation of the Taliban's reasoning, whereas The Independent and AP focus more on the local and security implications. This convergence suggests a coordinated narrative emphasizing moral enforcement and security concerns, but the economic and social consequences are likely to be profound and long-lasting.
How we got here
Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, their governance has included restrictions on communication and internet access. This is the first time they have ordered a complete cable internet ban in a province, citing moral reasons. Balkh, a key northern region, is now cut off from wired internet, though mobile services continue. Authorities often suspend mobile networks for security during festivals, but this is a broader, more permanent restriction.
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Common question
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What Does the Taliban's Internet Ban in Balkh Mean for Afghanistan?
The Taliban has recently imposed a complete ban on cable internet in Balkh province, raising concerns about how this move will impact daily life, business, and the country's future. Many are wondering why this ban was implemented, how long it might last, and what it signals about the Taliban's broader restrictions. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this significant development and what it could mean for Afghanistan's social and economic landscape.
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Recent developments in international trade, including US trade policies and sanctions, are reshaping global markets. Countries like Japan are experiencing export declines, while regions such as Afghanistan face internet bans that could affect economic stability. Curious about how these shifts affect your wallet or global growth? Below are key questions and answers to help you understand the current economic landscape.
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