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The Taliban imposed the internet blackout to combat what they perceive as 'immoral activities.' This move aligns with their broader agenda of enforcing strict moral codes since taking power in August 2021. The regime's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, believes that controlling access to information is essential in preventing 'vice,' which they define in a manner that restricts freedoms and personal choices.
The internet blackout significantly impacts Afghan women, who rely on digital platforms for education, communication, and support networks. Many women had used the internet to access educational resources and connect with others, making it a vital tool for empowerment. The shutdown exacerbates existing restrictions on their rights, further isolating them in a society where their freedoms are already severely limited.
The Taliban's definition of 'immorality' encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including any form of modernity or Western influence that contradicts their strict interpretation of Islamic law. This includes the use of social media, access to certain types of information, and activities that promote gender equality. Their crackdown aims to enforce traditional values as they interpret them, often at the expense of personal freedoms.
Internet bans have been used historically by authoritarian regimes to control information and suppress dissent. Examples include North Korea, where access is heavily restricted, and Iran, which has imposed internet blackouts during protests. Such measures are often justified by governments as necessary for national security or moral preservation, similar to the Taliban's rationale for their current actions in Afghanistan.
Similar blackouts in other countries have led to significant disruptions in daily life, economies, and civil society. For instance, during the 2019 protests in Sudan, internet shutdowns hindered communication and organization among demonstrators. In Iran, blackouts during protests have limited the ability of citizens to share information and mobilize, often leading to increased repression by authorities.
The United Nations has called on the Taliban to restore internet access, emphasizing that the blackout poses a serious threat to the rights and well-being of Afghan citizens. The UN highlights the potential for significant harm to communication, businesses, and humanitarian efforts. Their involvement aims to pressure the Taliban to reconsider their stance and uphold international human rights standards.
Internet blackouts can severely disrupt local economies by halting online businesses, freezing banking systems, and limiting access to global markets. In Afghanistan, the shutdown has grounded flights and closed businesses, impacting livelihoods. Economies increasingly rely on digital connectivity, and disruptions can lead to long-term financial instability and hinder recovery efforts in affected regions.
Technologies such as VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) and satellite internet can help bypass internet blackouts. VPNs allow users to encrypt their internet traffic and access blocked content by routing connections through servers in other countries. Satellite internet provides connectivity independent of local infrastructure, enabling access even when traditional networks are down, although these solutions may be limited in availability and accessibility.
Afghan citizens have expressed despair and frustration over the internet blackout, particularly those who relied on digital communication for personal and professional purposes. Many have taken to social media and other platforms to voice their concerns, despite the risks involved. The shutdown is seen as a regression in freedoms, leading to protests and calls for the restoration of communication services.
The internet blackout has strained the Taliban's relations with the international community, particularly with organizations advocating for human rights. The UN's calls for restoration of services highlight growing global concern over the Taliban's governance. Such actions could lead to increased isolation for Afghanistan, impacting humanitarian aid, diplomatic engagement, and foreign investment, as countries reassess their relationships with the regime.
