Are Burkas Now Required for Women to Access Hospitals in Taliban-Controlled Areas?

The Taliban's recent directive in Herat mandates that female patients, caregivers, and healthcare staff wear a burka to access public health facilities, a measure reported by the medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Effective from 5 November, this order has raised significant concerns about women's access to healthcare and has reportedly led to a 28% decline in urgent patient admissions, highlighting the severe implications of such restrictions on women's health and rights.

Last updated: 10 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Taliban's enforcement of burka-wearing in Herat's healthcare facilities has sparked alarm among activists and humanitarian organisations. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has documented a significant drop in urgent medical admissions since the new policy came into effect. This directive has not only raised barriers for women seeking medical assistance but has also drawn criticism from various quarters, including international organisations and local activists. The Taliban's spokesperson has denied these reports, suggesting that the enforcement of the burka is not consistent across all regions.

Key takeaways

• The Taliban has mandated the burka for women entering healthcare facilities in Herat since 5 November.
• MSF reported a 28% decrease in urgent patient admissions following the enforcement of this policy.
• The Taliban government has denied the implementation of these restrictions, claiming they are exaggerated.

Timeline: how we got here

The recent developments regarding women's dress codes in Afghanistan can be traced back to the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. Below is a brief timeline of key events:

• August 2021: The Taliban takes control of Afghanistan, leading to immediate concerns about women's rights.
• 2022: A decree is issued mandating that women wear an all-covering face veil in public.
• 5 November 2023: The burka becomes a requirement for women seeking access to public health facilities in Herat.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The notable shift is the strict enforcement of the burka requirement for women in healthcare settings, which has not been seen to this extent since the Taliban's previous rule in the 1990s. MSF's report of a 28% decrease in urgent patient admissions underscores the immediate impact of these restrictions on women's access to necessary medical care.

What was already established

Prior to this enforcement, the Taliban had already imposed several restrictions on women, including limitations on education and employment. The face veil edict from 2022 indicated a trend towards stricter clothing requirements, but the application of the burka in public life has intensified recently.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the immediate impact of the Taliban's policies is felt in Afghanistan, UK households may see indirect effects through increased humanitarian concerns and the potential for more refugees fleeing the regime. The ongoing crisis highlights global obligations to support women's rights and healthcare access.

Businesses and jobs

The restrictions on women in Afghanistan's workforce have broader implications for international businesses and NGOs operating in the region. An environment that limits women's participation restricts overall economic growth and development, raising ethical concerns for UK-based organisations engaging in humanitarian aid.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may need to reassess its foreign aid and diplomatic strategies in light of these developments. The situation calls for renewed dialogue on women's rights and humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan during international summits and discussions with other nations.

Numbers that matter

• 28%: The reported decrease in urgent patient admissions to health facilities in Herat following the burka mandate.
• 2022: Year when the Taliban issued a decree mandating the wearing of a face veil in public.
• 5 November 2023: Date when the burka enforcement for women in healthcare settings was officially implemented.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Burka: A full-body Islamic veil that covers the face and body, typically allowing only a mesh screen for vision.
• Hijab: A term for modest dress in Islam, often referring specifically to headscarves worn by women.
• Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and the Hadith, governing various aspects of a Muslim's life.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, the situation may evolve as international pressure mounts on the Taliban to address these restrictions. Humanitarian organisations are likely to increase their advocacy for women's rights and healthcare access.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Expect ongoing scrutiny of the Taliban's policies as international bodies continue to monitor the situation in Afghanistan. There may be calls for sanctions or further diplomatic measures if conditions do not improve.

Signals to watch

• Reports from humanitarian organisations like MSF regarding changes in healthcare access for women.
• Statements from the Taliban regarding enforcement of dress codes and women's rights.
• International responses, including potential sanctions or diplomatic actions taken by the UK and allied nations.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed by following reliable news sources on the evolving situation in Afghanistan.
• Support humanitarian organisations advocating for women's rights and healthcare access.

Don’t

• Assume that reports from the region are exaggerated; the situation is fluid and often dire for women.
• Neglect the need for advocacy and support from the international community.

Checklist

• Follow updates from MSF and other humanitarian organisations.
• Engage with advocacy groups focused on women's rights.
• Understand the implications of Taliban policies on global humanitarian efforts.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation in Afghanistan remains complex and evolving. Reports of the Taliban's enforcement of the burka are contested, with officials denying the extent of the restrictions. Moreover, the implications of these policies on women's health and rights are still unfolding, with the potential for further changes in response to international pressure. Therefore, understanding the nuances and the varying experiences across different regions in Afghanistan is crucial.

Bottom line

The recent enforcement of burka-wearing for women in healthcare facilities in Herat marks a troubling escalation in the Taliban's restrictions on women's rights. As the situation develops, it is essential for the international community to respond proactively to ensure that the rights and health of women in Afghanistan are upheld.

FAQs

What does the burka mandate mean for women in Afghanistan?

The burka mandate significantly restricts women's access to healthcare and public spaces, compounding existing barriers to their rights and autonomy.

How have humanitarian organisations responded to the burka mandate?

Humanitarian organisations like Médecins Sans Frontières have reported a drop in patient admissions and are advocating for women's rights and healthcare access amidst these restrictions.

What are the implications for international relations regarding the Taliban's policies?

The Taliban's restrictive policies may lead to increased scrutiny and diplomatic pressure from the international community, potentially affecting foreign aid and relations.