The Kabul Tribune (KT) - The Afghan human rights organization Rawadari has said that the Taliban’s criminal code explicitly uses the word “slave” in several sections, effectively legitimizing slavery.
In a statement, Rawadari said the Taliban have recognized slavery as a legal status.
According to the organization, Article 15 of the code reads: “For any crime for which a fixed punishment is not prescribed, a discretionary punishment (tazir) will be applied, whether the offender is free or a slave…”
Additionally, Clause 5 of Article 4 specifies that fixed punishments (“hudud”) are enforced by the “imam,” while discretionary punishments (“tazir”) may be carried out by a “husband” or “master.”
Rawadari emphasized that labeling individuals as “free” or “slave” and using the term “slave” constitutes recognition of a legal status that is absolutely prohibited and violates principles of equality, human dignity, and fundamental human rights.
The organization also stressed that slavery is forbidden under international law in all circumstances, forming part of jus cogens norms, which no state or group has the right to violate.
Rawadari warned that implementing such provisions could result in widespread human rights abuses and undermine human dignity in Afghanistan.
