What's happened
Recent weeks have seen Afghanistan's Taliban government impose a nationwide ban on fiber-optic internet, citing morality concerns. This move disrupts communication, education, and business, especially affecting women and girls who rely on online platforms for learning. Experts criticize the ban as a control tactic, raising fears of further isolation amid ongoing humanitarian challenges.
What's behind the headline?
The Taliban's internet restrictions reveal a strategic effort to consolidate control under the guise of morality. By shutting down fiber-optic services, the regime effectively isolates the country from global digital networks, hampering economic growth and access to information. The move disproportionately impacts women and youth, who depend on online platforms for education and communication. Experts like Obaidullah Baheer argue that this mirrors earlier Taliban tactics, where morality is used as a justification for repression, not genuine concern. The Chinese model of selective filtering offers a technological alternative to total shutdowns, suggesting that Afghanistan could adopt similar measures to control content without complete disconnection. The broader implications include increased economic hardship, diminished international engagement, and a further erosion of civil liberties. The regime's actions will likely deepen Afghanistan's isolation, making recovery and integration into the global community more difficult in the coming months.
What the papers say
The Guardian highlights the broader impact of the internet shutdown on education and communication, emphasizing the regime's justification of morality concerns. SBS reports on the specific disruptions faced by Afghan families and entrepreneurs, criticizing the move as inhumane and dangerous. Al Jazeera provides detailed coverage of the recent escalation, including the expansion of the shutdown to nationwide fiber-optic services and the regime's official claims. The articles collectively portray a pattern of increasing repression, with critics warning that these measures threaten Afghanistan's future stability and development. While The Guardian and SBS focus on the social and economic consequences, Al Jazeera offers insight into the regime's official stance and the potential for technological solutions, such as filtering, to mitigate the damage.
How we got here
Since the Taliban's return to power in 2021, restrictions on women's rights and internet access have increased. The government has justified recent internet bans as measures to prevent 'immoral activities,' but critics argue these actions serve to tighten control and suppress dissent. The shutdown affects vital sectors, including education, business, and communication, and follows a pattern of using morality as a pretext for repression.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did Afghanistan Shut Down Internet in Northern Provinces?
The recent internet shutdown in northern Afghanistan has raised many questions about the motives and consequences behind such a drastic move. With the Taliban citing morality concerns, millions of people are affected—impacting education, business, and communication. But what does this mean for Afghan society and the wider world? Below, we explore the reasons behind the shutdown, its effects, and what experts are saying about internet censorship as a control tactic.
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How Are Global Conflicts and Cultural Changes Shaping Our World Today?
In a rapidly changing world, conflicts like the war in Ukraine, tensions in the South China Sea, and restrictions in Afghanistan are reshaping geopolitics and society. Meanwhile, cultural shifts such as new language trends and international sports developments reflect broader societal transformations. Curious about how these stories impact your daily life and the future? Below, we explore key questions about current global conflicts and cultural shifts to help you stay informed and prepared.
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How is Afghanistan's internet ban affecting daily life and human rights?
Afghanistan's recent ban on fiber-optic internet has raised serious concerns about its impact on daily life, education, and human rights. This move, justified by the Taliban government as a morality measure, is seen by many experts as a way to tighten control and suppress dissent. In this page, we explore the reasons behind the ban, its effects on Afghan society, and what experts are saying about this troubling development.
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How Do Internet Restrictions Impact Global Communication and Politics?
Internet restrictions, such as bans and shutdowns, are increasingly used by governments worldwide. These measures can significantly affect how countries communicate, influence political stability, and shape diplomatic relations. Understanding the broader implications of internet control helps us see how digital access is vital for global connectivity and democracy. Below, we explore key questions about how internet restrictions impact the world stage.
More on these topics
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The Taliban or Taleban, who refer to themselves as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, are a Sunni Islamic fundamentalist political movement and military organization in Afghanistan currently waging war within that country.
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Afghanistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country at the crossroads of Central and South Asia.