Taliban regime victory in August 2021 in Afghanistan have made women’s human rights severely decline in the country.
The Taliban has placed many limitations on lives of women. Specifically, women are excluded from secondary and university education, which then constricts their prospects.
Women’s employment opportunities have disappeared almost completely, as many industries are now closed. Public places, e.g., parks, gyms and beauty salons are currently out of reach for women.
These countermeasures have resulted in Afghanistan being dubbed the world’s most repressive nation for women.
Resilience Amid Oppression
Despite all these difficulties, Afghan women continue to prove themselves resilient. Grassroots women’s groups have stepped forward to help meet needs in education, business, and agriculture. The grassroot groups work hard for the communities even with the increased restrictions.
Moreover, their work underlines the force, tenacity of Afghan women.
Impact on Women’s Mental Health
The restrictions have left the Taliban’s strictures to affect the women of Afghanistan in terms of mental health. The loss of education and employment has provoked tears of sadness with the increase in depression and anxiety. Many are alienated due to restrictions in movement and public life. Their lack of healthcare access makes matters only worse. Whereas, mental health services are still limited, making recovery for affected women very tough.
Afghan Women in Sports
Afghan female cricketers have to deal with a priori considerable challenges under the Taliban (i.e., the ruling party of Afghanistan) regime. After being banned from playing post-2021, they reunited for a match in Melbourne. This activity is a hope and resilience symbol for Afghan women’s sport. Moreover, it highlights global solidarity with their freedom to compete in sports.
International Response and Challenges
Reactions from international community to these problems have been uneven. Appeal is often circumvented through the intermediary of local NGOs and women’s organizations, therefore underserved. There is an urgent requirement of specific support to enable Afghan women. Additionally, supporting education, economic initiatives, and climate resilience projects are also included.
Global Condemnation and Calls for Action
The Taliban’s policies were highly condemnable. Their behavior is perceived as a calculated regression on the part of the respect accorded to women. Whereas, the international community still urges the rollback of these repressive practices. Furthermore, human rights advocates underline the need to respect the human rights of all Afghans.
Future of Afghan Women’s Rights
The future of the rights of Afghan women remains unsure. Activists do not give up on demanding extra international pressure on the Taliban. Suppressed women’s protest movements indicate that women will not retreat from the fight for their rights. Moreover, world community needs to perform stronger moves in support of Afghan women. Otherwise, gender apartheid in Afghanistan may be permanent.
The Fight for Equality Continues
Afghan women face a situation of unparalleled challenge in Taliban rule. Even under extreme restraint, they do not give up acting like deciders, pursuing their rights. International pressure will be a determining factor in the fight ahead. Empowerment of Afghan women is key to the future of Afghanistan.
