The key facts

  • Fireworks are banned at all festive events in Afghanistan — the decision was made by the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue
  • The ban applies to manufacturers, importers, traders and owners of pyrotechnics shops
  • Previously, restrictions applied only in individual cities and only from 21:00 to 07:00

Complete ban on pyrotechnics at celebrations

The government of Afghanistan has completely banned fireworks and firecrackers at weddings and other festive events. The decision was approved by the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, as reported by the Pajhwok news agency; the ban was also reported by Daryo.uz citing Afghan media.

The authorities' rationale

The ministry explained that the use of pyrotechnic products causes people fear, anxiety and stress. The agency stressed that the well-being and safety of citizens, public order and respect for human rights are important values of the government, so it was decided to ban 'dangerous products'.

Who the ban applies to and what violators face

According to the document, festive events in the country must be held in accordance with Islamic norms and sharia, and actions that cause panic among the population — including children, women and the elderly — are unacceptable. The ban applies to shop owners, importers, manufacturers and traders of pyrotechnics, as well as anyone directly or indirectly involved in the production or supply of such products to the country. Violators face punishment under the legislation of Afghanistan and sharia norms, but the exact nature of the punishment is not specified.

How the new ban differs from previous restrictions

According to local media, restrictions on pyrotechnics had been introduced in Afghanistan before, but they were not in effect across the entire country, only in individual cities, and only at night — from 21:00 to 07:00. Thus, the new decision expands the restrictions: fireworks are now banned throughout the country and at any time of day, not only at night.