Taliban smartphone restrictions in Afghanistan

In mid-June, the Taliban issued a directive prohibiting Afghan government employees from using smartphones, warning that violations could result in dismissal or court proceedings. Implementation has been inconsistent; some ministries restrict use within offices, while others have confiscated and destroyed personal devices. This move reflects an internal ideological divide between hard-line leaders in Kandahar, who view internet access as immoral, and pragmatic officials in Kabul who consider the technology essential for administration.

By August, the ban was extended to university campuses across the country. Following an order from supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, students in cities like Herat face potential prosecution for possessing mobile devices. University officials in Kandahar claim the measure ensures students focus on studies, but students report significant academic disruptions, noting that they rely on devices for digital textbooks, photographing lecture slides, and research. The ban also affects the livelihoods of those using messaging apps for freelance work and follows previous restrictions on high-speed internet access.