A Taliban government spokesman has asserted the Afghan authorities’ commitment to engaging with the international community despite controversy surrounding a new morality law. The law, which mandates that women cover themselves completely and refrain from speaking publicly, has prompted criticism from the United Nations and the European Union. Both have warned that the law could hinder future international engagement.
Deputy government spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat addressed concerns following a UN statement affirming continued dialogue with the Taliban. Fitrat emphasized the Taliban’s desire for positive interactions with other nations and organizations in accordance with Islamic law. He urged international bodies to engage constructively with the Taliban, noting that interaction is essential for resolving issues and expanding relations.
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Since the Taliban took power in 2021, no state has officially recognized their government. However, they have made some diplomatic progress, including participating in UN-hosted talks in Qatar.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, stated that the UN would maintain engagement with all Afghan stakeholders, including the Taliban. Dujarric emphasized the UN’s commitment to upholding human rights and equality, despite the recent tensions.
Earlier, the Taliban’s morality ministry announced it would cease cooperation with the UN mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) due to its criticisms of the new “Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.” This law imposes stringent regulations on various aspects of Afghan life, including prohibiting women from raising their voices in public and mandating full coverage of their bodies when leaving the house. It also regulates men’s behavior and dress, giving the morality police authority to enforce compliance.
UNAMA head Roza Otunbayeva and the EU have expressed concerns that the law represents a troubling vision for Afghanistan’s future and could set back cooperative efforts. The Taliban government has dismissed these criticisms, with Chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid defending the law as aligned with Islamic teachings and rejecting criticisms as arrogant.
