Kabul, Afghanistan – The Taliban government has issued a decree banning the use of smartphones by all employees of civilian and military government institutions in Afghanistan. This move has raised human rights concerns about its impact on access to information and modern communication technologies.
A comprehensive ban encompassing both civilian and military institutions
According to an order issued by a military court, the decision went into effect on June 16. The order applies to all officials in government and military institutions, as well as judges.
The order prohibits the use of smartphones entirely within government agencies. It also imposes penalties on violators, including the confiscation and destruction of devices used in contravention of the regulations.
Direct impact on the functioning of government operations
Government employees said the decision has already disrupted a number of administrative procedures that relied heavily on mobile messaging and email applications.
One employee noted that many official transactions were conducted via WhatsApp and other digital communication methods. Therefore, the ban has directly impacted the pace of work within government institutions.
Local authorities in some regions have also announced the immediate implementation of the decision in their offices and departments.
Human rights concerns about information restrictions
Activists and human rights defenders expressed their concern about the repercussions of the decision, considering that smartphones represent one of the basic means that Afghans rely on to access information, communication, and access to educational services.
They also pointed out that these devices are used to document violations, private communication, and access to various information sources. They warned that the new restrictions could further restrict the flow of information within the country.
The decision comes in light of the continuation of the policies imposed by the Taliban since its return to power. These policies have sparked repeated international criticism regarding public freedoms and citizens’ rights in Afghanistan.
