UN Warns Afghan Taliban Law Allows Child Marriage in Marriage-Separation Rules
Updated
Updated · NPR · May 22
UN Warns Afghan Taliban Law Allows Child Marriage in Marriage-Separation Rules
11 articles · Updated · NPR · May 22
The United Nations on Thursday voiced "grave concern" over a new Taliban law governing separation in marriage that includes provisions on child marriage.
The warning centers on language in the law that the UN says permits child marriage within rules meant to regulate marital separation.
The statement adds fresh international scrutiny to Taliban social legislation in Afghanistan, where women’s and girls’ rights have already faced broad restrictions.
With Taliban leaders wanted for crimes against humanity, will this new child marriage law finally trigger global action?
How does the Taliban's latest decree turn a young girl's silence into marital consent, effectively legalizing child marriage?
As Afghanistan codifies 'gender apartheid,' why is the EU reportedly inviting Taliban officials for talks in Brussels?
Afghanistan 2026: Taliban’s New Family Law Entrenches Child Marriage and Erodes Women’s Rights
Overview
In May 2026, the Taliban enacted the 'Principles of Separation Between Spouses,' a new family law that gives Taliban judges broad authority over marital disputes, including cases of adultery, religious conversion, and zihar. This decree follows years of escalating global criticism after the Taliban systematically imposed severe restrictions on women and girls since August 2021, such as banning girls from schooling beyond sixth grade, excluding women from universities, and limiting their employment and public participation. The new law further entrenches the Taliban's control, deepening concerns about the erosion of women's rights and drawing widespread international condemnation.