Explained: What is the Sharia law and how it could impact Afghan women

The Taliban's swift return to power in Afghanistan has refuelled fears over the group's extreme interpretation of Sharia law which could further restrict the rights of women and girls.

What is Sharia law?

Sharia law is Islam's legal system - which is based on the Quran and the rulings of Islamic scholars - and acts as a code of conduct for modern Muslims to adhere to, ensuring they abide by Allah's wishes in all areas of life, from daily routines to personal beliefs.

In Arabic, Sharia actually means "the way" and does not refer to a body of law.

Taliban's interpretation of Sharia law

The Taliban was condemned internationally for enforcing a strict and extreme version of Sharia law during its rule from 1996 to 2001, which included administering punishments such as public stonings, whippings and hangings.

Under the Taliban's ruling, activities and media, including paintings, photography and movies were banned.

What could this mean for Afghan women?

Under the Taliban's rule, women were effectively put under house arrest, as they were not allowed to work or have an education.

Women and girls from the age of eight had to wear a burqa, and had to be chaperoned by a male relative if they wanted to step out of their homes.

High-heeled shoes were also banned, homes with windows on the ground and first floor had to be painted over and women were forbidden to go on their balconies.

Photographing, filming or displaying pictures of women in newspapers, books, shops or the home was not allowed.

Women were banned from appearing on radio, TV or at public gatherings.

Is the Taliban now taking a moderate stance?

The Taliban have tried to present themselves as a more moderate force in recent years.

In a press conference on Tuesday, they have promised to respect women's rights, forgive those who fought against them and prevent Afghanistan from being used as a base for terror attacks.

The group has said that women in Afghanistan will have the right to work and be educated up to university level.

But many Afghans and experts are sceptical of those promises.