Problems of social networks in the Taliban government
In the Taliban regime, social networks are facing certain problems and challenges. These problems are caused by the government’s strict control over information and restrictions imposed on freedom of expression and access to the Internet. Some of these problems are:
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Severe restrictions on freedom of expression: The Taliban has imposed strict rules on expression and content published on social networks. People who raise opinions against the government or sensitive political, social and cultural issues face heavy punishments.
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Censorship and content filtering: The Taliban government widely censors the content of social networks. Many social network sites and applications are filtered and their access is limited for domestic users.
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Limited access to the Internet: The Internet infrastructure in Afghanistan is weak and with the Taliban coming to power, this access is even more limited. In addition, internet blackouts are used in some areas as a tool to control people.
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Control and monitoring of users: The Taliban uses social networks to monitor people’s activities. People may be prosecuted for their activities in cyberspace. Publishing opposing political views or criticizing the government may result in arrest or threats.
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Spreading false information and propaganda: The Taliban uses social networks to spread false information, propaganda and influence public opinion. These actions cause false and distorted information to be published instead of facts.
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Creation of fear and self-censorship: Due to pressures and security threats, many users refuse to freely express their opinions on social networks and resort to self-censorship.
Overall, social networks under the Taliban regime face serious problems related to censorship, access restrictions, and suppression of freedom of expression, which weakens their role as a space for free expression and dissemination of correct information.
Advantages and disadvantages of social networks
advantages and disadvantages of social networks as a widely used tool in the daily life of people and communities, it is related to several social, cultural, and even psychological aspects:
Advantages:
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Easy and fast communication: Social networks provide the possibility to communicate with friends, family and colleagues at any time and place.
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Access to information and news: Social networks are an important source for quick access to daily news and educational information.
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Increasing Social Awareness: These platforms serve as a space to discuss social, political and environmental issues and help raise public awareness.
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Networking and job opportunities: Social networks, especially platforms like LinkedIn, allow users to connect with professionals in various fields and find job opportunities.
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Business and marketing space: Many businesses use social networks for advertising, selling products and communicating with customers.
Disadvantages:
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Addiction and addiction to social networks: Excessive use of these platforms can lead to addiction, reduced productivity and waste of time.
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Negative effects on mental health: A lot of presence in social networks can lead to negative feelings such as anxiety, depression and social comparison.
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Privacy violation: Users’ personal information on social networks may be subject to abuse and lead to security issues and privacy violations.
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Spreading false information and rumors: Social networks are a platform for spreading fake news, rumors, and false information that can lead to public confusion.
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Decreasing face-to-face communication: Excessive use of these platforms may reduce human relationships and real communication and reinforce feelings of isolation.
All in all, despite the many benefits, social networks need a balanced and conscious use to avoid their disadvantages.