The Taliban in Afghanistan have introduced a new law that effectively legalizes domestic violence. Under this law, husbands can physically beat their wives and children “until bones break or there is significant bleeding” without it being considered a crime. The legislation has been signed by Afghanistan’s Supreme Leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada.
Even if abuse results in visible injuries or broken bones, the perpetrator faces only 15 days of imprisonment. Women must prove the abuse in court, and a male guardian must accompany them during proceedings. When presenting injuries to a judge, the victim is required to remain fully covered. Additionally, wives visiting relatives without their husband’s permission may face three months in jail.
Article 9 of the new penal code divides Afghan society into four classes—religious leaders (Ulema), the elite (Ashraf), the middle class, and the lower class—with punishments determined by social class rather than the severity of the crime. The new code overturns a 2009 law that had prohibited violence against women.
Since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban have imposed strict restrictions on women, limiting girls’ education and restricting women from going out alone or attending public events. Human rights organizations have expressed alarm over the legalization of domestic violence and called on the United Nations and other international bodies to intervene and prevent the law’s implementation.