The Taliban's newly enacted laws in Afghanistan are generating significant international backlash, with a United Nations official warning that the restrictions present a 'distressing vision' for the future of the country. Roza Otunbayeva, who heads the UN mission in Afghanistan, emphasised that the new regulations amplify existing 'intolerable restrictions' on women's rights, including a ban on women's voices and uncovered faces in public.

These new measures mark the first formal legislation by the Taliban since their return to power three years ago. The laws encompass various aspects of Afghan life, mandating that women must conceal their figures and faces and are forbidden from traveling without a male guardian. Men face restrictions as well, including requirements to grow beards and prohibitions against Western hairstyles and dress.

The Vice and Virtue Ministry has been empowered with significant authority to regulate personal conduct, detain, and fine individuals who breach these laws. Article 13 of the new legislation makes it mandatory for women to avoid temptation by covering themselves entirely and refraining from looking at men who are not relatives. These measures are aimed at promoting virtue and eliminating vice, according to the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law, as stated by ministry spokesman Maulvi Abdul Ghafar Farooq.

This crackdown on women's rights has echoes from various quarters, including Radio Free Europe, which cited Afghan journalist Sami Yousafzai linking the restrictions to the cultural practices of Pashtun tribal communities. Meanwhile, Azadah Raz Mohammad from the Atlantic Council pointed to the international community's insufficient pressure on the Taliban, specifically referencing a recent meeting in Qatar that did not address women's rights.

In conjunction with these restrictions, the Taliban have also initiated a ban on the popular combat sport Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Ahmadullah Wasik, the Director for Physical Education and Sports in Afghanistan, told Tolo News that the sport was prohibited due to its violent nature and potential for causing fatalities. This move aligns with the broader moral law intended to enforce strict behavioral codes for men and women, including specific dress codes and conduct in public spaces.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has sharply criticised these laws. The UNAMA labelled the regulations as disproportionately intrusive, strengthening the so-called vice police and infringing on basic human freedoms. This was met with a defensive stance from the Taliban, who claim these laws align with Islamic values and are necessary for maintaining moral integrity.

MMA, popular among Afghan youth for its blend of boxing, kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and judo techniques, is one of the many modern freedoms now curtailed under the Taliban's regime. The ban is seen as a reflection of broader societal control, extending beyond just women's rights to influence various aspects of daily life.

These legislative changes have illuminated the Taliban's repressive vision for Afghanistan. The international community remains largely opposed to these measures, with diplomatic relations strained. As highlighted by Otunbayeva, the cumulative effect of these policies will likely make interactions with the Taliban even more tenuous. Despite the absence of international recognition, regional powers like the United Arab Emirates have recently accepted Taliban ambassadors, signalling a complex geopolitical landscape.

With a scheduled report to the UN Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan, further international scrutiny is expected. However, the Taliban appear resolute, exemplified by statements from acting Higher Education Minister Nada Mohammed Nadim, who indicated that decisions regarding female education will be strictly aligned with Islamic law and Afghan culture.

The plight of Afghan women and girls under Taliban rule has attracted widespread condemnation. As global leaders and human rights organisations continue to voice their concerns, the challenge remains in translating this condemnation into effective action that positively impacts the lives of ordinary Afghans.