Taliban's Internet Shutdown Sparks Economic and Humanitarian Crisis in Afghanistan

Afghanistan: Taliban's Internet Shutdown Sparks Concerns KABUL, Afghanistan - The Taliban's decision to shut down fiber-optic internet connections has sparked widespread concerns in Afghanistan, with experts warning of severe consequences for the economy, women, and girls. The shutdown was confirmed on Tuesday by the northern Balkh province, which reported a complete ban on fiber-optic internet access. Other parts of the country, including Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, and Takhar provinces, have also experienced severe disruptions to their internet services. According to NetBlocks, an internet monitor based in London, internet usage in the affected provinces has dropped dramatically since the shutdown. "The Taliban's decision is a significant blow to Afghanistan's already fragile economy," said Shahla Ghazni, a Kabul-based economist. "Internet connectivity is crucial for businesses and trade, and this shutdown will only exacerbate the country's economic woes." A spokesperson for the governor of Balkh province attributed the decision to "prevent immorality," but many experts suspect that the Taliban leadership wants to block critical content and preempt potential protests. The move has been met with criticism from human rights groups, who warn that it will disproportionately affect women and girls. "The shutdown is a stark reminder of the Taliban's regressive policies towards women," said Fawzia Koofi, a former Afghan parliamentarian and women's rights activist. "Women in Afghanistan already face significant barriers to education and employment; this decision will only further marginalize them." The Taliban's ban on fiber-optic internet access has sparked concerns globally, with many countries urging the group to reconsider its decision. The United States, European Union, and other international organizations have expressed their concern over the shutdown. As the situation continues to unfold, experts warn that the consequences of the shutdown will be far-reaching. "The Taliban's decision is not only a blow to Afghanistan's economy but also a setback for human rights," said Dr. Saeed Ahmad, a Kabul-based academic. "We urge the international community to pressure the Taliban to reverse its decision and restore internet connectivity in the country." The current status of the shutdown remains unclear, with reports suggesting that the Taliban leadership is considering further restrictions on internet access. Background: Afghanistan has struggled to maintain stable internet connectivity since the Taliban took power in 2021. The group has imposed strict regulations on internet usage, including blocking social media platforms and restricting online content. International Perspectives: The shutdown has sparked concerns globally, with many countries urging the Taliban to reconsider its decision. "We are closely monitoring the situation and urge the Taliban to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms," said a spokesperson for the European Union. The United States has also expressed its concern over the shutdown, with a State Department spokesperson stating that it is "deeply troubled" by the move. Next Developments: As the situation continues to unfold, experts warn that the consequences of the shutdown will be far-reaching. The international community is urging the Taliban to reverse its decision and restore internet connectivity in the country. *Reporting by Dw.*