Taliban Suspends Chess in Afghanistan, Citing Sharia-Based Gambling Concerns

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has imposed an indefinite suspension on chess, citing its alleged connection to gambling under a strict interpretation of Islamic Sharia law, further restricting recreational activities in a country already grappling with limited cultural outlets. The decision, announced on Sunday by Atal Mashwani, spokesman for the Taliban’s sports directorate, has sparked disappointment among Afghan chess enthusiasts and local business owners who relied on the game’s popularity to attract customers.

Mashwani explained to AFP that chess is considered problematic due to “religious considerations,” asserting that the game’s prohibition will remain in place until these concerns are resolved. The move aligns with the Taliban’s broader agenda since their return to power in August 2021, which has seen sweeping bans on various sports and recreational activities, particularly for women, who are largely excluded from athletic participation. The chess ban follows last year’s prohibition of mixed martial arts (MMA), which was deemed too violent and contrary to Islamic values.

The suspension has dealt a blow to local businesses, particularly cafés that served as hubs for informal chess competitions. Azizullah Gulzada, a Kabul café owner, expressed frustration over the ban, noting its impact on his livelihood. “Young people don’t have many activities these days, so they came here daily for tea and chess,” Gulzada said. “This ban will hurt my business and take away a cherished pastime.” He highlighted that chess is widely played in other Muslim-majority countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia without similar restrictions, underscoring the growing discontent among Afghan youth facing dwindling recreational options.

The Taliban’s restrictions reflect their ongoing effort to reshape Afghan society according to a rigid interpretation of Islamic law, a policy that critics argue is isolating the country and stifling cultural development. Since 2021, the regime has banned music, curtailed theater, and limited access to public spaces for women, leaving few avenues for social engagement. On X, Afghan users voiced their dismay, with one post stating, “Chess was a safe space for our youth to connect and compete. The Taliban is taking even that away.” Others noted that Afghanistan’s chess federation, once a participant in international tournaments, is now defunct.

The international community has expressed concern over the Taliban’s cultural crackdowns, with human rights groups warning that such bans exacerbate Afghanistan’s social and economic challenges. The country’s youth, who make up over 60% of the population, face increasing isolation, with unemployment rates hovering around 40% according to recent UN estimates. As chess joins the growing list of prohibited activities, it remains uncertain whether the Taliban will reconsider their stance or if Afghanistan’s cultural landscape will continue to erode under their rule.