The Taliban’s supreme leader has issued a decree prohibiting the construction of windows in residential buildings that provide views of areas commonly used by Afghan women. Existing windows with such views must also be blocked, according to a statement released by the Taliban government spokesperson late Saturday.
The decree specifies that new buildings should avoid windows allowing visibility into courtyards, kitchens, wells, or other spaces typically used by women, as these could “lead to obscene acts.” The order, shared by spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid on the social media platform X, directs municipal authorities to oversee construction sites and ensure neighbors’ privacy is maintained.
If existing windows overlook such areas, property owners are encouraged to build walls or otherwise obstruct the view to prevent causing “nuisances to neighbors.”
Since reclaiming power in August 2021, the Taliban has systematically restricted women’s presence in public life. These measures include bans on education for girls beyond primary school, limitations on employment, and prohibitions against accessing parks and other public spaces.
A recent law has also forbidden women from singing or reciting poetry in public and requires them to “veil” their voices and bodies outside their homes. Additionally, some local broadcasters have ceased airing female voices.
The United Nations has criticized the Taliban’s policies as establishing “gender apartheid,” while the administration insists that their interpretation of Islamic law ensures the rights of Afghan men and women.
