The recent orders by the Taliban to close hair and beauty salons across Afghanistan have resulted in a devastating blow to women's freedoms and livelihoods in the country, reports BBC on July 24. For the past two years, these salons had been allowed to operate since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, but their closure was suddenly ordered last month. As a consequence, an estimated 60,000 jobs in the beauty industry are now at risk.
Women in Afghanistan have already faced severe restrictions, being barred from classrooms, gyms, and parks. The closure of salons further limits spaces where Afghan women can express themselves and feel a sense of freedom. The accounts of women like Zarmina from Kandahar, Madina from Kabul, and Somaya from Mazar-i-Sharif highlight the significance of beauty salons as more than just places for cosmetic enhancement. These salons have served as spaces for friendship, expression, and even therapy, especially in the face of the economic crisis and shrinking opportunities for women in the country.
The stories shared by Zarmina, Madina, and Somaya reflect the hardships and challenges faced by Afghan women in a society that is increasingly restricted under Taliban rule. Women's ambitions, dreams, and freedoms have been steadily eroded, with education and career opportunities becoming more and more limited. The closure of salons is just one aspect of the wider issue of gender discrimination and suppression of women's rights in Afghanistan.
The closure of hair and beauty salons in Afghanistan not only results in the loss of jobs but also represents a significant regression in women's rights and freedoms.
Earlier Daryo mentioned that the decision by the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan to shut down all beauty salons has triggered alarm and criticism from foreign governments and international entities. This action, implemented on July 2, is regarded as another constraint on women's entry to public places in the nation, further reducing their already restricted rights following the Taliban's resurgence.
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