Afghanistan is experiencing a near-total internet and telecommunications shutdown. The Taliban government ordered the disconnection of services. This began on Monday and escalated into Tuesday. Internet watchdog Netblocks confirmed the “total internet blackout”.
It reported national connectivity was at 14% of normal levels. The shutdown affects internet access, mobile phones, and landlines. It has caused widespread panic and disruption. Afghans living abroad cannot contact their families. International news agencies have lost contact with their Kabul bureaus.
The blackout follows weeks of deteriorating service. The Taliban began severing fibre-optic connections in several provinces earlier in September. The stated reason was to prevent “immoral activities” and “vice”. The order reportedly came directly from the Taliban’s supreme leader. A spokesperson for the Balkh provincial governor said the measure was to curb “evils”. He added that an alternative system would be established for essential needs. No official statement has been issued for the full nationwide blackout.
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Widespread consequences of the blackout
The communications blackout has severe humanitarian and social consequences. The country is already facing a deep humanitarian crisis. Many Afghans relied on the internet for vital services, including online education, which became essential after the Taliban banned girls from school. Women’s rights groups have lost contact with their staff inside the country. This has silenced a key channel for reporting on human rights.
The shutdown also affects the economy. Banking and e-commerce systems are expected to be severely disrupted. Flights at Kabul’s international airport have been cancelled. This further isolates the nation of 43 million people.
The move is seen by critics as a return to the Taliban’s previous rule. During that time, they banned television and other mass communication. Activists and former officials have compared the situation to North Korea. They have expressed deep concern for the safety and wellbeing of people now cut off from the world.
