Afghanistan's Taliban government imposes smartphone ban on government officials
Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities have ordered a nationwide ban on smartphone use for government officials, according to a military court order, in a move that has raised concerns among rights activists.
The order applies to all civil servants, including military personnel, judges, and civilian staff, and took effect from June 16. It states that violators may have their phones confiscated and destroyed, along with facing legal punishment.
Government employees say the ban has already disrupted administrative work, as much of the communication and coordination previously relied on smartphones, messaging apps, and email. Some provincial authorities, including in Panjshir, have begun enforcing the restriction immediately.
The Taliban government has not commented on the decision.
Rights groups warn that smartphones are a key tool for communication, education, and accessing information in Afghanistan, and say the move could further restrict public access to information and tighten control over civil life.
Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have imposed wide-ranging restrictions affecting women, media, education, and civil society, drawing ongoing international criticism.
