Taliban penal code reportedly allows domestic punishments in Afghanistan

A 90-page penal code issued by the Taliban is reported to permit husbands to physically punish wives unless injuries are severe, and it reportedly assigns different penalties based on social status.

Authorities in Afghanistan have issued a new 90-page penal code signed by the Taliban leadership. The code is reported to allow husbands to administer physical punishments to wives when injuries are not classified as severe. It also reportedly divides people into social categories that carry different legal consequences. Distribution to courts is reported and discussing the code is said to be restricted. Key points: - The code, named De Mahakumu Jazaai Osulnama, is reported to have been signed by the Taliban's supreme leader and distributed to courts. - Article 32 is reported to permit a husband to physically discipline a wife unless serious injury can be proven, with a short imprisonment noted in that circumstance. - The document reportedly assigns different punishments by social status, places women in a subordinate category, and limits public discussion of the code. Summary: Human rights advocates and international observers have expressed concern about the code's implications for women's rights and safety. The UN special rapporteur on violence against women described the effects as grave and questioned whether the international community will respond. Undetermined at this time.