UN criticizes Taliban decreeUN criticizes Taliban decree on child marriage
The United Nations has criticized a new Taliban decree in Afghanistan that sets rules for marriage separation and includes provisions affecting child marriage.
The law, reported on May 21 and 22, has drawn concern because rights groups say it further restricts women and girls in a country where the Taliban have steadily tightened social controls.
It matters because it signals continued international pressure over the Taliban’s treatment of women and children and may deepen Afghanistan’s isolation.
United Nations
The UN says the decree raises grave concern because it appears to reinforce discrimination against women and girls. It argues that laws affecting marriage and family life should protect autonomy, safety, and dignity.
Taliban government
The Taliban has presented the decree as part of its legal framework for family and marriage matters. It has not publicly accepted the UN’s criticism in the reporting provided.
- Afghanistan was once a major crossroads on the historic Silk Road trade network.
- The Taliban first governed Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001 before being removed by a U.S.-led intervention.
- The U.N. has repeatedly warned that restrictions on women can accelerate economic decline and aid dependence.
