According to recent reports, the Taliban has issued an order for all hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan to shut down. This directive, which comes as part of the group’s efforts to enforce strict Islamic customs, has left salon owners and workers concerned about their livelihoods.
Businesses had one month to comply, starting on July 2, when they were initially informed of the change, a Vice and Virtue Ministry official told the BBC.
Since the Taliban assumed power in 2021, the rights of women have rapidly decreased. Teenage girls and women have been forbidden from using the restroom in public places like gyms and parks, and most recently, they have been forbidden from working for the UN. In addition, according to the Taliban, women must wear clothing that only exposes their eyes and travel with a male relative if the distance is greater than 72 kilometres (48 miles).
The Taliban’s decision to close hair and beauty salons is yet another step in their efforts to impose their interpretation of Sharia law. In recent weeks, they have banned music at weddings, required women to wear the burqa in public, and restricted female education beyond the age of 12. This latest move further restricts personal freedoms and undermines the progress made in women’s rights in the past two decades.
The closure of hair and beauty salons has not only impacted the livelihoods of salon owners and workers but also affects customers who relied on these establishments for their grooming needs. Many women in Afghanistan have traditionally visited salons to have their hair styled and receive beauty treatments. With the closure of these businesses, they are left without accessible options for self-care and self-expression.
The Taliban’s order has sparked concerns about the future of the beauty industry in Afghanistan. Salon owners, who have invested time and money in their businesses, now face uncertainty and financial strain. Workers who rely on their income from salons are left without employment opportunities. The closure of these establishments not only affects individuals but also impacts the economy, contributing to job losses and a decrease in consumer spending.
Moreover, the closure of hair and beauty salons represents a significant setback for women’s empowerment in Afghanistan. Over the past two decades, women have made significant progress in various fields, including entrepreneurship and education. However, the Taliban’s decision to shut down these businesses sends a clear message that women’s rights and freedoms are at risk.
The international community has expressed concern and condemnation over the Taliban’s order to close hair and beauty salons. Organizations and activists are calling for the protection of women’s rights in Afghanistan and urging the Taliban to reconsider their oppressive policies. It is crucial for the international community to continue supporting Afghan women and advocating for their rights during this challenging time.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Taliban’s order to shut down hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan marks another step in their efforts to impose strict Islamic customs. The closure of these establishments not only impacts the livelihoods of salon owners and workers but also represents a setback for women’s empowerment in the country. The international community must continue to stand in solidarity with Afghan women and work towards protecting their rights and freedoms.
