Roya Mahboob, founder of the Digital Citizen Fund, highlights how Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies offer Afghan women under Taliban rule a path to financial freedom and hope. Through online and underground training on BTC ownership and use, the organization provides critical digital and financial literacy despite severe restrictions. The decentralized nature of crypto supports democratizing financial services amid barriers such as lack of IDs, employment denial, and educational restrictions.
Despite a strict Taliban ban on cryptocurrencies since 2022—deemed “haram”—crypto use continues covertly via peer-to-peer networks, playing a vital role in remittances and savings. Challenges include limited internet access, education barriers, and harsh penalties for crypto use. Nonetheless, underground crypto markets thrive, providing economic lifelines.
Other countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Algeria, Morocco, and Bolivia have similarly banned digital assets over concerns about volatility, illicit use, and threats to monetary systems.
