Faith Facts

• The Taliban has enacted a new criminal procedure code that formally recognizes slavery and enforces a class-based justice system in Afghanistan.
• This law introduces harsh penalties and class divisions, reducing due process and basic human rights, especially for women and girls.
• International leaders and Christian advocates warn these changes defy biblical values of human dignity and threaten freedom and justice.

The Taliban’s new criminal code, signed by leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, divides Afghan society and denies equal protection under the law. Rights groups and legal experts say it denies due process and elevates certain groups while punishing others.

The code references “free persons” and “slaves,” making Afghanistan’s legal framework conflict with international bans on slavery and Christian teachings on human worth.

“The Taliban has now approved the return of slavery in Afghanistan. We must defund the Taliban,” said Jim Risch, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

The law assigns different penalties for the same offenses depending on one’s class or gender, with clerics facing ‘advice’ and those of lower status receiving harsher punishment. Insulting an official or deviating from the Hanafi tradition leads to lashes and imprisonment.

Women are especially at risk, with life sentences and brutal treatment for leaving and returning to Islam, while abusive husbands face light consequences. These practices contradict Christian beliefs in justice and protection for the vulnerable.

The code removes legal safeguards such as the right to a lawyer or compensation for wrongful punishment, and enables convictions through forced confessions and limited evidence.

International voices, including the United Nations and Christian leaders, condemn these acts as “gender apartheid.” Gordon Brown labeled such persecution as crimes against humanity, noting that even Taliban leaders are divided over these oppressive policies.

Cases of arrested female journalists and business owners illustrate the regime’s crackdown on women’s rights. U.N. officials call for global action to hold the Taliban accountable and preserve human dignity rooted in biblical values.

Despite this, some international actors have legitimized the Taliban through diplomatic and economic engagement, undermining efforts for accountability and justice.

Across Afghanistan, families display courage by maintaining underground education efforts for girls, holding fast to the promise of freedom inspired by faith and family values.

As Christians, we must pray and advocate for those oppressed by tyranny, standing resolutely for the God-given dignity of every person. Stay informed and speak up for biblical justice worldwide.

Read the full article at Christian Daily

Faith Facts

• Virginia’s General Assembly passed a proposed constitutional amendment granting a right to abortion, now heading to voters this fall.
• The amendment could allow abortion at any stage and impact parental consent laws and conscience protections, warn Catholic bishops.
• Polling shows a majority of Virginians currently support the amendment, reflecting a concerning trend for the sanctity of life in America.

This November, Virginians will decide whether to embed abortion rights into their state constitution, a vote that will shape the moral direction of Virginia for generations.

The amendment, championed by Democrats, would establish a “fundamental right to reproductive freedom,” raising deep concerns among faith leaders about unrestricted abortion and the protection of the unborn.

“The extreme abortion amendment, which will proceed to a referendum for voters to decide later this year, would go far beyond even what Roe v. Wade previously allowed,” warned Virginia’s Catholic bishops.

They emphasized that the proposal undermines parental rights, health and safety standards, and religious liberty, while failing to protect innocent unborn children.

“Parental rights and the health and well-being of minors must be defended,” the bishops urged. “So too must religious liberty. No one should ever be forced to pay for or participate in an abortion. Health and safety should be enhanced, not diminished. Most importantly, human life is sacred.”

People of faith are called to pray, speak up, and encourage others to defend the dignity of every human life at the ballot box.

Read the full report here

In a recent initiative, Planned Parenthood has launched the “Bros for Repro” campaign, encouraging men to support abortion rights. This campaign highlights how the organization seeks to engage men in discussions about reproductive rights, rather than focusing solely on women’s perspectives.

Planned Parenthood, a major healthcare provider, is advocating for a constitutional amendment in Virginia that would allow for abortion access throughout pregnancy. The Virginia League for Planned Parenthood (VLPP) is working to gather support for this amendment, emphasizing the importance of reproductive freedom and choice.

The “Bros for Repro” campaign aims to redefine allyship by encouraging men to support reproductive rights. Josh Cole, a spokesperson for the campaign, states, “Freedom is sacred. And real love honors choice.” This perspective emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and the belief in supporting personal decisions.

The response from various groups to this campaign has been mixed. Some express concern over the lack of opposition from certain political and religious groups, while others highlight the need for more comprehensive discussions around reproductive rights and responsibilities.

In 2020, changes in Virginia’s legislation led to the repeal of the Women’s Right to Know Bill, which previously mandated certain informational requirements for women considering abortion. Planned Parenthood advocates for informed reproductive choices and emphasizes the importance of access to comprehensive information and resources.

The ongoing debate around reproductive rights continues to reveal differing perspectives on issues of equality and personal freedom. Advocates for reproductive rights argue for the importance of supporting women and families through access to necessary resources and healthcare.

Supporters of reproductive rights believe that true allyship involves standing with women and families during challenging times, offering support and understanding. In Virginia, there are numerous resources available for those facing unexpected pregnancies, providing medical services and material support.

Encouraging responsible and informed decision-making is crucial. By promoting understanding and support, society can better uphold values of compassion and freedom, ensuring that individuals have the resources they need to make informed choices about their lives and futures.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source