The Taliban's supreme leader has issued a directive prohibiting the construction of windows in residential buildings that overlook areas used by Afghan women.
A statement released on Saturday by a Taliban government spokesman mandated that new buildings avoid windows with views of courtyards, kitchens, or neighbors’ wells, citing privacy concerns.
Existing windows with such views are also required to be blocked under the new order.
"Seeing women working in kitchens, in courtyards or collecting water from wells can lead to obscene acts," according to the decree posted by government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid on social media platform X.
Municipal authorities and other relevant departments would have to monitor construction sites to ensure it is not possible to see into neighbors' homes.
In the event that such windows exist, owners would be encouraged to build a wall or obstruct the view "to avoid nuisances caused to neighbors", the decree states.
Since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, women have been progressively erased from public spaces, prompting the United Nations to denounce the "gender apartheid" the administration has established.
Taliban authorities have banned post-primary education for girls and women, restricted employment, and blocked access to parks and other public places.