KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghanistan’s Taliban led government has placed new restrictions on social media content across major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and X, sources at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology confirmed Wednesday.
The measures, described as “content filtering,” come just days after a nationwide internet blackout that disrupted daily life, businesses, and emergency services.
While officials have not clarified the exact nature of the restrictions, users across multiple provinces report difficulties accessing videos, images, and certain posts.
The new social media restrictions follow a two day internet shutdown last week that plunged Afghanistan into near total digital isolation.
Telecommunications services were also disrupted during the blackout, affecting flights, financial transactions, and communications with emergency responders.
Since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban have steadily tightened control over media and public expression. While they have stopped short of a complete ban on the internet, access has become increasingly regulated.
In recent months, Taliban officials have justified certain restrictions as necessary for “the prevention of vices” under their interpretation of Islamic Sharia law.
Last month, a spokesperson in Balkh province said blocking internet access was aimed at curbing “immoral” activities.
Digital rights advocates warn the new filtering system could mark a significant escalation in state censorship.
“These content restrictions indicate an attempt to centralize control over online information,” said Nadia Karim, a digital policy analyst at the Afghanistan Media Freedom Network.
“By filtering social media, authorities can shape narratives and limit exposure to critical voices.”
Cybersecurity watchdog NetBlocks confirmed “intentional restrictions” on multiple internet service providers, noting that patterns observed across networks point to coordinated government action.
Experts also highlight the potential economic fallout. “Afghanistan’s fragile private sector relies heavily on digital tools for marketing, sales, and communication,” said Omar Farhad, an independent economist based in Kabul.
Restricting access to social platforms could isolate businesses and worsen unemployment.
Afghanistan ranks among the lowest globally in internet accessibility, with only about 22% of the population having reliable online access, according to the World Bank.
Despite limited coverage, social media remains a vital communication tool, particularly for young people, journalists, and women barred from public life.
Neighboring Iran and Pakistan have also imposed intermittent internet restrictions in recent years, often citing national security concerns.
However, experts note that Afghanistan’s situation is unique due to the absence of independent media and the Taliban’s strict governance model.
In Kabul, several residents told the BBC and local outlets that videos on Facebook and Instagram are no longer viewable.
“I can open Facebook but can’t see pictures or play videos,” said Ahmad Zahir, a government employee in Nangarhar province. “The internet is very slow, and it’s affecting my work.”
A shop owner in Kandahar province reported similar issues. My fiber connection was cut off since Tuesday,” said Mohammad Rahim, who runs a small electronics business. “Mobile data works but is painfully slow. Instagram doesn’t load at all.”
Women, who face widespread restrictions on education and employment, say online platforms have been their primary connection to the outside world.
“For many girls, the internet is the only classroom left,” said a 19 year old student in Kabul, who asked not to be named. “If they take that away too, we have nothing.”
While Taliban officials have not provided a formal explanation or timeline for the restrictions, sources suggest the filters could remain in place indefinitely.
A senior government source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the filters were designed to block “immoral or anti Islamic” content. “We hope this time there won’t be a full internet ban,” the official said.
The filtering is being applied across most provinces. International organizations have urged the Taliban to maintain open access to information.
Connectivity is not a luxury it’s a lifeline, said a spokesperson for Human Rights Watch. Cutting off access undermines basic rights and deepens Afghanistan’s isolation.
The Taliban’s latest move to filter social media content underscores a growing effort to control information flow in Afghanistan.
With limited clarity from officials and mounting frustration among users, the country faces an uncertain digital future.
For millions of Afghans especially women, youth, and business owners these restrictions threaten to sever a crucial link to education, commerce, and the global community.