UN vows to defend Women’s Rights in Afghanistan

The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, has stated that the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan are under relentless attack. Writing on social media platform X on Saturday, January 4, she declared, “We will not give up, and my commitment to defending their rights within the framework of Islam remains unwavering.”

Amina Mohammed emphasized that setbacks this year have further eroded the dignity and well-being of Afghan women and girls, making their lives increasingly vulnerable.

“Women’s and girls’ rights in Afghanistan continue to be under constant attack. This year the rollbacks have gone further depriving them of a life of dignity. We will not give up. My commitment is unwavering to defend their rights in Islam,” she stated.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, they have systematically violated the fundamental rights of women and girls. These include rights to education, employment, freedom of movement and expression, and a life free from violence.

In one of their latest actions, the Taliban banned women and girls from attending medical educational institutions, further restricting their access to education and employment opportunities.

UN experts recently stated that the Taliban’s policies amount to “gender apartheid.” They warned that barring girls from studying medical sciences will lead to unnecessary suffering, illness, and potentially death for Afghan women due to a lack of female healthcare professionals.

The restrictions on education and employment have left Afghan women and girls in a state of despair, stripping them of autonomy and opportunities. Many face severe poverty, exclusion, and a lack of access to basic healthcare and resources.

The international community must urgently act to support Afghan women and girls. Advocacy, humanitarian aid, and targeted interventions are necessary to challenge these oppressive policies and ensure that the rights and dignity of Afghan women are preserved.

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