Taliban’s Education Ban Increases Risk of Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Afghanistan

The Taliban’s recent ban on female students above grade six from attending school has raised concerns about the human rights crisis faced by women and girls in Afghanistan. The ban not only deprives women and girls of their right to education but also increases the risk of gender-based violence, according to the European Union representatives in a United Nations Commission on the Status of Women’s session.

The UN members expressed strong concerns about the Taliban’s oppressive measures against women and girls, which defy the will of the Afghan people and retract their promises to the international community. The ban on female employees of national and international NGOs also means that millions of Afghans will be unable to access life-saving humanitarian assistance and face even higher risks of violence, exploitation, and abuse.

The Taliban’s decision to ban female students from sitting in university entrance exams has also drawn widespread criticism, further curtailing women’s rights and freedoms. Women and girls in Afghanistan are facing a human rights crisis, deprived of their fundamental rights to non-discrimination, education, work, public participation, and health.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) emphasized the position of Islamic law on the need for women’s education, work, and participation in public life, making the Taliban’s ban even more egregious. The Taliban’s actions are not only harmful to women and girls but also undermine Afghanistan’s stability.

The ban on women’s education in Afghanistan is a significant setback for gender equality and threatens to exacerbate the already dire situation for women and girls in the country. It is crucial to continue advocating for women’s rights and supporting organizations that provide essential services to women and girls in Afghanistan, especially during these difficult times.

Staff Reporter