Taliban Bans Chess in Afghanistan Citing Religious Concerns

The Taliban has imposed an indefinite ban on all chess-related activities in Afghanistan, citing religious reasons. On May 11, officials from the Taliban-led Ministry of Sports confirmed the suspension, stating that the ban will remain in effect until an appropriate religious clarification is received.

This is another unusual prohibition by the Taliban, who have continued to oppose various forms of entertainment and sports under the pretext of religious justification. According to reports by Khaama Press, the decision was made due to "religious considerations" and directives issued by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.

The Afghan Chess Federation has also been dissolved under this directive, as the game was declared "haram" (forbidden) based on Taliban interpretations of Islamic law. Until these issues are addressed, chess activities will not be allowed to resume.

Broader Crackdown on Sports and Culture

This decision is part of a growing trend of cultural and recreational restrictions since the Taliban took power in Afghanistan. Prior to the official announcement, several chess players and federation officials reportedly requested permission and financial support to continue their activities under the new regime—but were denied.

Chess, once regarded as an intellectual sport in Afghanistan, had seen a revival in recent years. The national federation had been operating under the Taliban-led Ministry of Sports. The recent move highlights the Taliban’s broader strategy of limiting cultural and leisure activities under their version of Islamic governance.

Wider Restrictions and Impact on Freedoms

The chess ban further reflects increasing restrictions on freedoms in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. The group has already placed numerous bans on women’s rights, including education.

Earlier, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada signed a nine-point decree mandating school uniforms for boys—shirt, pants, turban, and white cap—but omitted details for female teachers and students. Girls’ uniforms are to be black, and girls are banned from studying beyond sixth grade, including access to universities and medical institutions.

Whether the international community will successfully pressure the Taliban to reverse such decisions remains to be seen.