Restrictions on women and the media in Afghanistan are well documented, but how they are enforced is less understood. Drawing on Afghan Witness monitoring from January 2022 to April 2026, this report examines how nationally issued restrictions are implemented in practice, and finds that variation across provinces and institutions reflects the structure of Taliban governance rather than inconsistent policy.

Since the Taliban’s return in 2021, Afghan women have faced escalating restrictions that limit their mobility, visibility, and access to basic services. This report together recent directives verified by Afghan Witness, as well as a timeline of restrictions since 2021 to show how measures eroding women's rights across Afghanistan have developed.

A new study by CIR reveals that open source research is a field defined by innovation but also imbalance when it comes to gender equality. It presents concrete recommendations for how to strengthen gender sensitivity and inclusion as essential for relevant, accurate, and ethically grounded investigations.

Report of house searches, arrests, and intimidation of beauticians.

As the Taliban continue to erode women's rights, many Afghan women have turned to Instagram as a lifeline for community, self-expression and business - while navigating increasing restrictions and abuse.

Designed as a resource for researchers, journalists, and the public, the new hub aims to raise awareness and increase access to gender-focused, open source research on a range of countries and contexts.

Campaign follows ICC investigation into gender-based abuses.

Directive threatens licenses of NGOs defying restrictions, despite informal exceptions.

New Taliban ban ends women's medical education, raising alarm over future healthcare for Afghan women.

When acting Minister Hanafi discussed elements of the law on virtue and vice, misinterpretations spread globally.

International Court of Justice case against Taliban triggers social media campaigns from both supporters and critics

How women of Afghanistan fight the Taliban today