Afghanistan adopts new criminal code restricting women's rights

Afghanistan adopts new criminal code restricting women's rights

The Taliban interim government in Afghanistan has adopted a new Criminal Code that severely restricts women's rights. According to The Sunday Guardian, the document is being sharply criticized by human rights activists and the international community.
Some provisions of the code are said to de facto legalize domestic violence. In particular, under Article 32, even if a husband inflicts bodily harm on his wife, if the woman proves it in court, the man can be limited to only 15 days in prison.
It is also noted that the disproportion in penalties is noted and the basic rights of women and children are seriously restricted. The code strictly controls women's movements, relationships and family decisions. In addition, life imprisonment and regular flogging are prescribed for women who renounce Islam, while men are given a short period of opportunity to repent.