Afghanistan: Taliban authorities suspend Swedish activity nationwide indefinitely as of July 11

Event

The Taliban government has suspended Swedish activity nationwide as of July 11 to denounce the desecration of the Muslim holy book Quran during a recent protest in Stockholm. Authorities said the ban will continue until the Swedish government issues an apology. Officials did not elaborate on the extent and nature of activities that the suspension order covers. Some operational disruptions, mainly in the aid sector, are possible.

Context

Sweden maintains a severely limited presence in Afghanistan. While military forces departed in May 2021, diplomats and citizens were evacuated in August 2021 in addition to the closure of the Swedish embassy. Since 2006, Sweden has also advised against all travel to Afghanistan citing security concerns. The latest move is likely to exacerbate aid delivery disruptions prompted by earlier operational limits on local and international aid organizations.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Ensure contingency plans account for business disruptions.