Taliban’s Shocking Edict, Mannequins’ Faces Must Be Covered in Kabul’s Stores

Taliban government has instructed shopkeepers in Kabul to cover the faces of mannequins, further tightening its strict interpretation of Islamic law. The directive, enforced by the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, comes as part of the Taliban’s ongoing efforts to shape the public environment according to their austere religious beliefs.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, they have implemented a series of stringent measures, including a ban on depicting human faces. This policy was introduced nationwide in January 2022, with religious police in Herat going as far as decapitating mannequins to comply with the edict. Now, in Kabul’s bustling shopping districts, mannequins are seen with their heads wrapped in plastic, foil, or black bags.

One 22-year-old shopkeeper in Kabul, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals, explained the situation: “It makes the display a bit ugly, but it doesn’t affect sales.” He added that while the current directive is to cover the heads, he fears that the authorities may soon demand that the mannequins’ arms be covered as well.

Despite the eerie sight of headless figures in shop windows, both customers and sellers appear unfazed. “There are more serious problems,” said another shopkeeper, pointing to the harsh economic conditions and the severe restrictions on women’s education and employment under the Taliban regime. “This is not very important for Afghan people. We make do with it.”