Taliban Leader Orders Nationwide Ban on Cannabis Cultivation in Afghanistan
The leader of the Taliban administration has issued a new decree banning the cultivation of cannabis plants, or ‘bhang,’ across all regions of Afghanistan, announcing the nationwide enforcement of this order. According to the decree, no individual is permitted to grow cannabis on their private or agricultural land, and any plantations found will be eradicated.
The text of the decree states that the Ministry of Interior and other Taliban investigative bodies are responsible for arresting individuals accused of violating this directive and referring them to the courts. However, the decree does not provide details on the legal process, trial standards, or guarantees for the rights of detainees.
Lack of transparency in the judicial system and protection of defendants’ rights has previously been criticized by human rights organizations. Critics warn that implementing strict orders without a clear legal framework could lead to human rights violations among residents.
This decision comes as international agencies, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, have reported that despite a reduction in the cultivation of some narcotics, the production and trafficking of methamphetamine or crystal meth have increased. This situation raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the Taliban administration’s declared policies to control narcotics.
Additionally, Donald Trump, the President of the United States, stated in a declaration issued in September 2023 that Afghanistan will be listed as a major country of transit and production of narcotics in the 2026 fiscal year. The statement also emphasized that some Taliban members benefit from the drug trade – a claim that once again casts doubt on the Taliban administration’s assertions about a firm fight against narcotics.
