Women's Rights Under Attack in Afghanistan
Afghanistan has long been a battleground for human rights, and in recent years, women’s rights have faced severe setbacks. Following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, the country has seen an increasing number of restrictions on women and young girls, drastically minimizing their ability to participate in public life. The Taliban’s hardline policies have effectively erased two decades of progress toward gender equality, imposing harsh limitations on nearly every aspect of the lives of women.
One of the most severe restrictions has been the ban on girls' education beyond the sixth grade. In December 2022, the Taliban further tightened this policy by prohibiting women from attending universities. These measures have effectively shut women out of formal education, depriving them of future educational opportunities and personal growth.
Women have also been prohibited from working in most sectors of Afghan economy. While some women are allowed to work in healthcare and education (in roles specifically for women), most other jobs are off-limits. In December 2022, the Taliban banned women from working for non-governmental organizations, severely disallowing their participation in humanitarian and developmental efforts.
Additionally, Strict dress codes have been enforced, requiring women to wear the burqa or a hijab covering their face and body in public. Women are not allowed to travel long distances without a male guardian and are restricted from accessing parks, gyms, and other public spaces.
In socio political environments, women have entirely been excluded from political participation under the Taliban's rule. Female judges, journalists, and activists have been removed from their positions, and many have faced threats and persecution. The Ministry of Women's Affairs was abolished and replaced by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, which enforces the Taliban’s regulations.
These restrictions have not only rolled back women’s rights, but have also triggered a humanitarian crisis, as women’s exclusion from public life impacts their families’ financial stability and access to essential services. Despite the oppressive environment, Afghan women continue to resist through protests, underground schools, and advocacy efforts, but they face harsh crackdowns from the authorities.
The Taliban’s policies on women’s rights have drawn widespread international condemnation. However, meaningful diplomatic and economic pressure has yet to result in significant changes, leaving Afghan women facing an uncertain and restricted future.
