Rewritten Title: New Guidelines on Women’s Access to Public Spaces Announced in Herat
Article:
Herat Implements Modesty Directives for Public Entry
In a recent development, the Taliban’s Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice office in Herat has issued new guidelines concerning women’s entry into public establishments. The directives, announced in a meeting with local shop owners on November 4, 2025, stipulate that women must wear a full burqa or an Arabic-style abaya with a niqab (face veil) to enter retail stores.
Expanded Scope to Government Offices
The regulations extend beyond commercial spaces to include key governmental institutions. The new measures apply to several public service centers in Herat, including the Directorate of Education, the Population Registration Office, the Provincial Court, and the Regional Hospital. This signifies a coordinated effort to standardize the implementation of these modesty standards across different sectors of public life.
Stricter Enforcement of Dress Code
Reports indicate that the enforcement is notably strict. The directive explicitly states that even women who observe a full hijab, but do not wear the specific burqa or niqab as outlined, will be denied entry to these locations. This clarifies that the requirement is for a particular type of covering that includes the face veil.
Framework of Sharia Implementation
A spokesperson for the administering body stated that these measures fall within the framework of implementing Sharia-based regulations. The move is part of a broader policy approach by the de facto authorities to establish and enforce their interpretation of Islamic law within Afghan society.
The development has been a topic of significant discussion, highlighting the ongoing evolution of social policies in the region under the current administration.