Taliban Bans Books by Women Authors
19th September 2025
The Taliban has removed books written by women from Afghan universities and banned the teaching of human rights, sexual harassment, and 18 other subjects—citing conflicts with Sharia law.
About 140 female-authored books were among 680 deemed “of concern.” The decree continues the Taliban’s restrictions since regaining power four years ago.
Women and girls are hit hardest, barred from education beyond sixth grade—with even midwifery courses closed in 2024.
Nevertheless the Taliban claims it respects women’s rights under its interpretation of Afghan law and culture.