NextFin news, The Taliban government has implemented a sweeping ban on books authored by women in Afghanistan's university system, effective as of Friday, September 19, 2025. This move is part of a broader crackdown on educational content, which also prohibits the teaching of human rights and sexual harassment, according to official decrees issued in late August.
The ban affects a total of 680 books considered "in conflict" with the Taliban's interpretation of Sharia law, including 140 titles written by women. Among the banned works are educational texts such as "Safety in the Chemical Laboratory." Additionally, 18 academic subjects have been outlawed, six of which specifically address women's issues, including Gender and Development, The Role of Women in Communication, and Women's Sociology.
The decision was made by a panel of religious scholars and experts, as stated by Ziaur Rahman Aryubi, deputy academic director of the Taliban's Ministry of Higher Education. The ban also targets books by Iranian authors or publishers, with officials citing a desire to prevent "the infiltration of Iranian content" into Afghan education. Of the 679 titles on the banned list, 310 are linked to Iranian sources.
This latest restriction further limits educational opportunities for women and girls in Afghanistan, who have been barred from education beyond the sixth grade since the Taliban's return to power four years ago. The closure of midwifery courses in late 2024 has also removed one of the few remaining professional training avenues for women.
Educators in Afghanistan have expressed concern about the impact of the ban on academic quality and international engagement. A Kabul University professor, speaking anonymously, noted that the removal of Iranian literature creates a significant void in the curriculum, as these works serve as vital links to the global academic community. Many educators are now forced to prepare their own teaching materials under Taliban-imposed restrictions, raising questions about whether these can meet international standards.
The Taliban government maintains that its policies respect women's rights within the framework of Afghan culture and Islamic law. However, the reality on the ground shows increasing restrictions on academic freedom and women's participation in higher education.
The BBC has reached out to the Taliban's Ministry of Education for comment on the recent developments, but no response has been received as of Friday, September 19, 2025.
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