Hope Dims for Afghan Women as Taliban Cuts Off Internet Access
Once a student of law and a midwife, Fahima Noori's future was full of promise. She had also gained experience working in a mental health clinic. However, all her dreams were abruptly halted when the Taliban regained control in 2021. Women's education and employment opportunities were heavily restricted, and books authored by women were purged from academic institutions.
The Internet: A Ray of Hope
Despite the bleak circumstances, Fahima found solace in the internet. She enrolled in an online university with hopes of completing her education and securing a remote job. However, her only remaining connection to the outside world was severed when the Taliban instigated a nation-wide internet blackout. "Our last hope was online learning. Now that dream has been destroyed," expressed a disheartened Fahima. To ensure their safety, the true identities of Fahima and others in similar situations have been altered.
The Impact of the Shutdown
The Taliban's recent actions to cut off fibre-optic internet connections in several regions signaled the possibility of a complete internet blackout. This fear turned into reality when the entire country plunged into digital darkness, disrupting essential services and communications. Flight operations from the capital city's airport were also affected, and mobile internet and satellite TV services were significantly disrupted across the nation.
Stories of Disrupted Lives
Shakiba, a resident of the northern province of Tahkar, shared a story similar to Fahima's. "The only hope left for us was the internet and online learning," she said. "When I heard that the internet had been cut, the world felt dark to me."
Fahima, on the other hand, felt "helpless". She and her sisters, who were also studying online, could no longer stay updated with news and technology or learn new skills. "We dreamed of finishing our education and helping our father financially, but now... we all sit at home doing nothing," she lamented.
Effects on the Education Sector
The impact of the internet shutdown has been felt by not just students, but teachers too. Zabi, who used to earn a living through online teaching, has been hit hard by the ban. He had turned to online teaching after failing to find opportunities in journalism upon his return to Afghanistan. "Two days ago, about 45 of my students were in the middle of an exam when the internet was cut off. They had been preparing for it for months, but they missed the opportunity. It was heartbreaking for them - and for me as their teacher," he recalled.
The Economic Impact of the Shutdown
While mobile data remains an option for some, it is prohibitively expensive for most, and the service is unreliable. A monthly plan with 100GB of data costs around $50, whereas Wi-Fi used to cost about $14 per month, a cost that could be shared among several students. Zabi says he will have to leave the country if the internet isn't restored soon, as he has no other means of livelihood.
Business and Trade Take a Hit
Anas, a money changer, says his business has suffered "enormous problems" since the internet shutdown. "Our business has been affected by about 90%," he said. His primary concern, however, are his three daughters - all of whom used to take online classes. "Their last opportunity to study is now gone. Seeing my children so helpless... [that was] the hardest for me. Only God knows what will happen to them and to me," he expressed.
Uncertainty Prevails
The Taliban has not yet provided an official reason for the internet shutdown. They had earlier hinted that an alternative route for internet access would be created but did not elaborate further. As the nation grapples with this sudden change, the future for many remains uncertain.