Philenews

Taliban: New Law Allows Wife Beatings as Long as 'Bones Aren't Broken'

Published February 20, 2026, 14:11
Taliban: New Law Allows Wife Beatings as Long as 'Bones Aren't Broken'

The Taliban have introduced a new penal code that legalizes wife beatings, as long as serious injuries such as broken bones or open wounds are not inflicted. The 60-page code, signed by the Taliban’s supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, treats domestic violence as “ta’zir” – a form of discretionary punishment – rather than a criminal offense. The law allows husbands to freely beat their wives and children, with the aforementioned limitation. Even in cases of serious injury, the maximum penalty is only 15 days in prison. The process of filing a complaint is extremely difficult for women, as they are required to present their injuries in person to a male judge, covered and accompanied by a male guardian, who is usually the perpetrator. The code repeals previous legislation that criminalized forced marriages, rape, and gender-based violence. Furthermore, it criminalizes even discussing the code itself. The law also places restrictions on women's freedom, punishing those who visit their parents without their husband's permission with up to three months in prison. The new legislation has sparked strong reactions, with women stating that they feel their lives have turned into a constant resistance and that no one cares about them.