Story perspectives

Taliban's Internet Ban Leaves 2.2M Afghan Girls in Despair

10/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan (the de facto government) banned secondary education for girls.
The internet blackout began on September 29.
The blackout left nearly 2.2 million Afghan girls fearing for their education.
Education Cannot Wait and UNICEF had provided educational support to many.
Internet restrictions have halted these efforts and intensified despair, isolation, and economic hardship for Afghan women.

History

Historical Context

Following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, they reinstated severe restrictions on women's education, banning girls from secondary schools and universities. This regression mirrors their previous rule from 1996 to 2001, when similar bans led to widespread educational deprivation. By December 2022, over 2.2 million Afghan girls faced educational exclusion, threatening decades of progress in women's rights and education in Afghanistan.

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Story summary

Taliban authorities in Afghanistan (the de facto government) banned secondary education for girls.
The internet blackout began on September 29.
The blackout left nearly 2.2 million Afghan girls fearing for their education.
Education Cannot Wait and UNICEF had provided educational support to many.
Internet restrictions have halted these efforts and intensified despair, isolation, and economic hardship for Afghan women.

1 / 2