Afghanistan’s ministry of virtue kills chess, declares it a religious ‘game of sin’
Chess has been banned in Afghanistan indefinitely, following religious concerns and the intervention of the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.
The interim government of Afghanistan has formally prohibited chess, aligning with its broader opposition to various forms of entertainment and sports within the country. Reports indicate that the ban stems from “religious considerations” and the restrictions set forth by the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, meaning chess-related activities will remain suspended indefinitely.
On Sunday, May 11, officials from the Ministry of Sports confirmed the suspension, noting that no chess activities would be allowed to take place until religious concerns have been properly addressed. Until a resolution is found, the sport will remain prohibited.
The Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has also gone as far as dissolving the Afghanistan Chess Federation, labeling the game as “haram” (forbidden) according to its interpretation of Islamic law. This move is part of an ongoing trend of restricting cultural, social, and sporting events since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan.
Leading up to the announcement, several chess players and enthusiasts had sought permission and financial support from the Ministry of Sports to continue their activities. However, they were met with the news of the indefinite ban, making it even more difficult to pursue the game.
Once a popular intellectual pursuit in Afghanistan, chess had experienced a resurgence in recent years, with the national federation operating under the Ministry of Sports. The Taliban’s current stance on the matter is part of a broader strategy to limit cultural and recreational activities in the country, often citing interpretations of Islamic law.
This chess ban represents another step in the Taliban’s tightening grip on freedoms in Afghanistan. These restrictions, which extend beyond sports, impact cultural and educational activities, leaving a significant mark on Afghan society. The future of these policies remains uncertain, as it is unclear whether international pressure will influence a reversal of these decisions.
