Full Breakdown
Impact of Taliban's Internet Shutdown on Afghan Women and Economy
10/6/2025, 12:56:18 PM
Overview of the Internet Ban
On September 29, 2025, the Taliban imposed a nationwide internet shutdown for 48 hours, citing the need to prevent "immoral activities." This action primarily affected the fiber-optic network in five northern provinces—Balkh, Kunduz, Badakhshan, Takhar, and Baghlan—leading to significant disruptions in daily life, education, and business operations across Afghanistan. The shutdown left many citizens, particularly women, without access to essential online services, exacerbating their already precarious situations.
Consequences for Women and Education
The internet has been a crucial lifeline for Afghan women, enabling them to run businesses and access education. Women like Sabrinna Hayat, who operates a handicrafts business, reported that the ban has tripled her internet costs and severely limited her ability to receive orders. Similarly, Dawrani, a tailor employing widows, expressed that the loss of connectivity threatens her livelihood, stating, "If I cannot even earn this small piece of bread, I will be forced to leave this country." The shutdown has particularly impacted girls above the sixth grade, who rely on online learning platforms for their education, leaving them isolated and without educational opportunities.
Economic Fallout
The economic repercussions of the internet blackout were immediate and severe. Money exchangers in Kabul reported significant financial losses due to halted transactions and disrupted banking operations. One exchanger described the Taliban's actions as "reckless" and warned that such disruptions could lead to a loss of customer trust and investor confidence. Economic analysts highlighted that the shutdown exposed the fragility of Afghanistan's communication infrastructure and could deter future investments.
Criticism and Opposition
Digital rights advocates and citizens have criticized the Taliban's justification for the internet ban, arguing that it reflects a broader agenda to control and suppress modernity. Obaidullah Baheer, a Kabul-based academic, noted that the Taliban's actions echo previous restrictions on women's education, suggesting a pattern of using morality as a pretext for oppression. Many citizens expressed fears that the Taliban's policies would lead to further isolation and economic decline, with some speculating about a potential permanent shutdown of internet services.
Official Statements and Responses
The Taliban's Ministry of Communications has not provided a clear rationale for the ongoing disruptions or the poor quality of restored services. Reports indicate that a regulation is being drafted that could further restrict internet access, potentially limiting it to approved companies and institutions. This has raised alarms among citizens who fear that such measures would completely sever their connections to the outside world.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A complete ban has been imposed on fibre-optic cable … This action has been taken to prevent immoral activities, and an alternative solution will be developed within the country to meet necessary needs,” — Haji Zaid, Spokesman for the Governor of Balkh Province
- “Without internet, even that may disappear," said Dawrani.” — Dawrani, Tailor
- “When communication is cut, we cannot report, we cannot cry out, and we cannot even reach out for help.” — Mursal, Journalist
- “Fereydoun Nasimi (pseudonym), an activist in the field of digital currency, said that the internet is no longer just a simple communication tool but has become deeply integrated into all aspects of life, providing countless conveniences.” — Fereydoun Nasimi, Digital Currency Activist
Conclusion
The Taliban's recent internet shutdown has had profound implications for Afghan women and the economy. As citizens grapple with the immediate effects of the ban, concerns about future restrictions loom large, threatening to further entrench the isolation and economic instability that many Afghans face.
