The Taliban’s supreme leader has issued an order banning windows in residential buildings that overlook areas used by Afghan women. The order also says that existing windows with such views should be blocked.
A statement released on Saturday by the Taliban government spokesman said new buildings must avoid installing windows that allow a view into spaces like courtyards, kitchens, or wells areas commonly used by women.
According to the decree shared by government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid on the social media platform X, the rule is to prevent “obscene acts” that could occur from seeing women performing daily tasks like cooking, fetching water, or working in courtyards.
Municipal authorities and relevant departments are now responsible for monitoring construction sites to ensure no such windows are built. If existing windows provide a view into a neighbor’s home, owners are advised to block the view by constructing a wall or other barriers to avoid “causing problems for neighbors.”
Since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, they have steadily removed women from public spaces. The United Nations has criticized these actions as “gender apartheid.”
The Taliban has already banned education for girls beyond primary school, restricted women from working, and denied access to parks and public spaces. A recent law prohibits women from singing or reciting poetry publicly, encouraging them to “veil” their voices and bodies when outside their homes.
Even some local radio and TV stations have stopped airing female voices, further limiting women’s presence in Afghan society.
