Taliban enforces nationwide internet blackout to combat immorality

Afghanistan has descended into a complete telecommunications blackout, affecting over 43 million citizens. This unprecedented move began with the Taliban's decision to sever fiber-optic connections across the country, which was officially initiated on September 16, 2023. The leadership, under Haibatullah Akhundzada, issued this directive emphasizing that the shutdown aims to prevent immoral activities. As of September 29, 2023, the blackout became a national event, impacting not only internet services but also telephone communications, which are often linked through the same fiber lines. The consequences of this internet shutdown are extensive. Reports from various news outlets confirm a drastic decline in connectivity to less than one percent of normal levels, marking one of the most severe telecommunications restrictions since the Taliban regained power in August 2021. Many media outlets in Afghanistan, including TOLO News, have experienced significant disruption, with their broadcasts severely affected by the loss of communication infrastructure. The shutdown has sparked widespread concern among Afghans, both domestically and in the diaspora, as many rely on internet connectivity for education, work, and contact with family. Moreover, the United Nations has urgently appealed to the Taliban to restore internet and telecommunications access, arguing that this blackout exacerbates one of the world's most dire humanitarian crises. The organization highlighted that the restrictions threaten economic stability, limit access to medical care, and further isolate women and girls, who have already been impacted by the reversal of rights under Taliban rule. Observers fear that this internet outage, implemented in the name of morality enforcement, could lead to greater societal isolation and hinder the vital exchange of information necessary during crises like the recent earthquakes in the region. As the situation develops, alternative communication means, such as satellite phones, are being explored by various diplomatic missions to maintain contact with the Afghan populace. Assessments also forecast that ongoing restrictions could devastate sectors relying on online services, as businesses and educational programs may struggle without reliable internet access. The Taliban's determination to cut off these communications continues to pose profound challenges for the Afghan people, raising questions about their future amidst an ongoing humanitarian disaster.