What's Happening?
Internet services in Afghanistan were restored after a two-day nationwide shutdown imposed by the Taliban, which had left the country in a state of digital paralysis. The Taliban did not provide an official explanation for the outage, which disrupted air traffic control, banking services, and communication. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan had urged the Taliban to restore internet access, citing risks to economic stability and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The shutdown followed previous restrictions on high-speed internet in some provinces, reportedly to prevent 'immoral activities.' Afghanistan continues to face severe humanitarian challenges, exacerbated by aid cuts and the return of refugees from neighboring countries.
Why It's Important?
The restoration of internet services is crucial for Afghanistan, where digital communication is vital for humanitarian aid coordination and economic activities. The shutdown highlighted the Taliban's control over information and communication, raising concerns about further restrictions on freedoms. The international community remains critical of the Taliban's governance, particularly regarding human rights and the treatment of women. The incident underscores the fragile state of Afghanistan's infrastructure and the challenges faced by aid organizations operating in the region. The situation also reflects broader geopolitical tensions, as Western nations, including the U.S., have not recognized the Taliban as the legitimate government.
