A total internet blackout has plunged Afghanistan into darkness, severing vital communication lines and raising fears for the safety and well-being of its citizens. The shutdown, confirmed by multiple watchdog groups, comes as the Taliban intensifies its enforcement of restrictive morality measures.
The blackout is impacting millions of Afghans, disrupting access to information, education, and essential services. For those with family abroad, like Afghan journalist Wahida Faizi, now based in Denmark, the loss of connectivity is deeply personal. “It has only been a few hours since the internet was cut off in Afghanistan, but for me, it feels like a lifetime has passed,” Faizi told CNN on Monday. She reflected on the simple joy of daily calls with her parents, stating, “Perhaps we always complained about the slow internet in Afghanistan, but today I have realized that even faulty internet and those simple moments of video calls were such a great blessing.”
The internet shutdown is particularly devastating for girls’ education. Since the Taliban banned girls from attending school beyond grade six, many have turned to online classes offered by educators abroad and charitable organizations. These opportunities are now jeopardized. Activists warn the blackout could have devastating consequences for these students.
Organizations working within Afghanistan are also struggling to maintain contact with staff. Sabena Chaudhry,communications manager at Women for Afghan Women (WAW),an Afghan women’s rights association,described the situation as “not only silencing millions of Afghans but also extinguishing their lifeline to connect with the outside world.” Chaudhry, based in New York, confirmed they have lost contact with personnel inside Afghanistan.
The Taliban has not officially commented on the reason for the blackout, but it follows a pattern of increasing restrictions on freedoms and a tightening grip on control since seizing power in 2021. This latest move raises concerns about the future of civil society and human rights in Afghanistan.
