Amnesty Intl Says Decision to Ban Women From Public Parks Must Reversed

Amnesty International called on the Islamic Emirate to reverse its recent decision to stop women from visiting public parks in Kabul.

“Any such decision by the Taliban must be reversed immediately as women’s rights under the Taliban have been systematically under attack. The Taliban banning women from public parks in Kabul according to media reports is yet another blow to women`s rights in the country.

“In particular, Amnesty International calls on the International Community to not turn a blind eye on the systematic suffering of women and rights under the Taliban rule. Amnesty International continues to document, report and expose women`s and girls` violations under the Taliban,” Amnesty International South Asia tweeted.

The Islamic Emirate’s Ministry of Virtue and Vice stopped Afghan women from attending parks in Kabul two days ago.

According to ministry representatives, this restriction has been placed on women as a result of non-hijab observance.

“Sisters and owners of parks, general bathrooms, and clubs did not work with us and did not abide by the regulations and the hijab, therefore this decision was taken. We hope they have accepted this and embraced it after understanding our fifteen-month work. We’ll leave the question of what will happen next and the resulting decision for another time,” said Akef Mahajir, a spokesman of the ministry.

“People are dealing with many issues. The Taliban should work to address the economic problems of the people rather than becoming engaged in petty issues like closing the parks,” said Javad Ahmad, a resident of Kabul.