Taliban's Tech Ban Deepens Afghanistan's Isolation

A recent crackdown by the Taliban to curb perceived immorality has resulted in a widespread ban on fibre-optic internet across Afghanistan. The ban disrupts access to Wi-Fi for governmental entities, public institutions, and households, although mobile internet services continue to operate.

This unprecedented ban, initiated since the Taliban's ascension to power in August 2021, has severely impacted internet availability in northern and eastern provinces such as Balkh, Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz, Nangarhar, and Takhar. The Afghan Media Support Organisation has openly condemned this restriction, emphasizing the threat it poses to freedom of expression and access to essential information services.

The Communications Ministry had reported a vast fibre-optic network of over 1,800 kilometers last year, highlighting the significance of the connectivity now at risk due to the crackdown. While government officials promise alternative solutions for necessary connectivity, the scale and future of these measures remain uncertain.

(With inputs from agencies.)