Post by : Shakul

The United Nations has expressed serious concern over a new law introduced by Afghanistan’s Taliban government that critics say could allow child marriage and further weaken the rights of women and girls across the country.

The controversial decree, known as Decree No. 18, was published by Afghanistan’s justice ministry and outlines rules regarding marital separation and family disputes. Human rights organisations and UN officials believe several sections of the law indirectly permit child marriage by treating silence from girls who reach puberty as consent for marriage.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said the decree raises alarming questions about free consent and the protection of children. According to UN officials, the law reflects a growing pattern of restrictions targeting Afghan women and girls since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

The decree also outlines conditions under which girls married at a young age may request cancellation of marriage contracts after reaching puberty. However, critics argue the legal process remains heavily unequal because men still retain greater authority in divorce and separation matters.

Women seeking separation reportedly face strict judicial procedures and limited legal support. The law states that if a husband denies a woman’s request for divorce, his statement may be accepted as valid in certain situations, making it harder for women to secure legal protection.

The Taliban government rejected the criticism and defended the decree as being based on Islamic principles. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that Afghanistan already prohibits forced marriage and claimed authorities had investigated thousands of such cases over the past year.

The issue has once again drawn international attention to the condition of women in Afghanistan. Since taking control of the country, the Taliban administration has imposed several restrictions on women, including bans on secondary education, universities, many forms of employment and public recreational spaces.

UN officials warned that continued restrictions on women’s education and participation in society could deepen poverty and weaken Afghanistan’s long-term development. Human rights groups have also urged the international community to continue pressuring the Taliban to protect basic freedoms for women and children.

The latest decree has sparked renewed debate globally over gender equality, child protection and legal rights in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

#Asia News #Human #Rights #World News