The Taliban's latest decree on marriage has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups, as it effectively entrenches the patriarchal norms that govern Afghan society. Introduced in April 2026 by Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, the law sets out 12 grounds for marital dissolution – but with caveats that render a woman's ability to divorce largely dependent on her husband's consent.
For Fatima, an arranged marriage in late 2025 has proven a nightmare. Married to a man with severe intellectual and physical disabilities, she sought legal separation through the district court, only to be thwarted by a judge who cited her husband's affirmation of their union as grounds for refusal. Taliban soldiers ensured her return to her in-laws, highlighting the overwhelming power imbalance at play under this new regime.
The decree explicitly states that even in instances of abuse or neglect, judges and arbiters cannot grant a divorce without the husband's consent – effectively legalising forced marriages and perpetuating a cycle of abuse. Child marriage is also given tacit approval, permitting male relatives to arrange unions for children with limited provisions for annulment once they reach puberty. This has left girls like Ruqya, who at 16 was engaged to a 31-year-old relative despite her protests, trapped in situations she desperately wants to escape.
The Taliban's introduction of 'khul' – a form of divorce where a woman or her family pays the husband for his consent to end the marriage – is little more than a cruel joke. There is no limit on the amount demanded, leaving families like Ruqya's facing financial ruin. The £9,300 demanded in exchange for her freedom has left them with little choice but to endure an undesirable situation.
The UK Government's condemnation of the Taliban's systematic rollback of women's rights in Afghanistan remains resolute. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for Afghanistan remains 'Do not travel', highlighting the extreme volatility and severe risks faced by all individuals under Taliban rule – particularly women and girls.
The restrictive environment is also having a devastating impact on humanitarian organisations operating in the country, limiting their ability to deliver aid. As the international community grapples with how to respond to this crisis, the UK's lack of formal recognition of the Taliban government severely limits its direct influence.