Afghanistan continues to witness a decline in freedoms under the Taliban’s rule. Women and girls bear the brunt of these restrictions. The United Nations recently highlighted the grim reality, urging immediate action to address the escalating crisis.
The Taliban’s interpretation of Islamic law has stripped women of basic rights. Girls have been barred from formal education beyond grade six for nearly 1,200 days. A new decree preventing women from attending medical institutes threatens the country’s fragile healthcare system. This restriction impacts everyone, leaving a critical void in the medical workforce.
THE DIRE IMPACT ON HEALTHCARE
Healthcare in Afghanistan faces a collapse. Without trained female medical professionals, women and girls struggle to access essential services. This ban affects men and boys too, highlighting the widespread consequences of these policies.
ERODING FREEDOMS: A SOCIETY UNDER SURVEILLANCE
The enforcement of the “Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice” law has deepened societal constraints. Taliban inspectors monitor public spaces, NGO offices, mosques, and even weddings. Strict segregation of women in business and daily life has worsened their mental health, impacting families and children.
MOVEMENT AND GROOMING RESTRICTIONS
Women need male guardians to travel or seek healthcare. Men, too, face restrictions, with grooming standards enforced. Western-style haircuts and clean-shaven looks are now punishable, reflecting the Taliban’s rigid policies.
Media Clampdown: Silencing Voices
Freedom of expression has dwindled. Journalists face increasing restrictions, making it nearly impossible to report on key issues. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) highlights the shrinking space for public debate, particularly concerning women’s and girls’ rights.
Civil society groups face tight restrictions. Political activities and advocacy for basic rights have been severely limited. This suppression silences voices that could advocate for change.
A WORSENING HUMANITARIAN CRISIS
Nearly half of Afghanistan’s population lives in poverty. Extreme weather events have displaced thousands and destroyed livelihoods. Hunger and malnutrition affect one in three people. Basic services, including healthcare and education, are crumbling.
With malnutrition rates rising, Afghanistan faces one of the worst global humanitarian crises. Children are particularly vulnerable, with limited access to nutritious food and clean water.
CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION
The United Nations has urged the international community to address the crisis through three key actions:
- Increased Humanitarian Funding:
Funding is critical to sustain aid operations and address urgent needs. - Reducing Aid Obstructions:
International support must pressure the Taliban to lift restrictions on women and ensure equitable aid distribution. - Investing in Long-Term Solutions:
Focused efforts on agriculture, healthcare, and education are essential to rebuild Afghanistan.