The Taliban government has banned books written by women from Afghan university curricula, as part of sweeping new restrictions that also outlaw the teaching of human rights and sexual harassment.
Out of 680 titles flagged as “anti-Sharia,” 140 were authored by women, including science texts like Safety in the Chemical Laboratory. Eighteen subjects have also been removed from university programs — six of them focused specifically on women, including Gender Studies and Women’s Sociology.
A Taliban official stated these subjects conflict with “Sharia principles and government policy.” The move follows other recent bans, including one on fibre-optic internet in 10 provinces, aimed at curbing “immorality.”
Women and girls remain disproportionately affected. They are already barred from schooling beyond sixth grade, and midwifery programs — one of the few remaining education options for women — were closed in late 2024.
Former deputy justice minister Zakia Adeli, whose book was banned, said the move reflects the Taliban’s deep-rooted misogyny:
“When women aren’t allowed to study, it’s no surprise their writings are also suppressed.”
The ban also targets Iranian authors and publishers, reportedly to curb “Iranian influence” in Afghan education. Of the 679 banned books, 310 are linked to Iran.
Professors warn the restrictions will isolate Afghan academia. One university lecturer said the banned books had been a key connection to global scholarship:
“Their removal creates a substantial void in higher education.”
Under the new guidelines, faculty must now create their own textbooks — but whether they can meet international academic standards remains uncertain.
