Taliban Marriage Decree Sparks Global Outcry

Taliban Marriage Decree Raises Global Human Rights Concerns

Why in the News ?

The United Nations has criticised a new marriage decree issued by the Taliban in Afghanistan, warning that it deepens discrimination against women and may legitimise child marriage practices.

Taliban Marriage Decree Sparks Global Outcry

Taliban Decree and Restrictions on Women

  • The Taliban government introduced a 31-article decree regulating separation and marriage-related issues in Afghanistan.
  • The decree allows annulment of marriage contracts involving minors but also implies that child marriage remains legally permissible.
  • According to the UN, procedures for women seeking separation are more restrictive and complicated than those applicable to men.
  • The decree was approved by Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.
  • The Taliban government rejected international criticism, arguing that the rules are consistent with its interpretation of Islamic principles.

UN Concerns Over Human Rights Violations

  • The UN stated that the decree reinforces systemic discrimination and further weakens the rights of Afghan women and girls.
  • The decree has been criticised for denying women equal access to justice, autonomy, and decision-making power.
  • Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban has imposed severe restrictions on women’s education, employment, mobility, and public participation.
  • Girls in Afghanistan are barred from education beyond primary school and restricted from public spaces such as parks, gyms, and beauty salons.
  • The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) warned that earlier protections related to women’s consent in marriage are gradually being eroded.

About Women’s Rights and Taliban Rule :

●      The Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021 after the withdrawal of foreign troops.

●      International organisations have repeatedly expressed concerns over violations of women’s rights and human rights under Taliban rule.

●      Child marriage refers to marriage involving individuals below the legally recognised age of adulthood and is considered a violation of human rights.

●      The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan monitors political, humanitarian, and human rights developments in Afghanistan.

●      Global human rights frameworks such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) advocate equality, education, and protection for women and girls.