Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has strongly criticized Afghanistan’s restrictions on women’s education and employment. Speaking at the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, he condemned the situation as a severe violation of fundamental rights.
Turk stated that Afghan women are facing an extreme form of gender-based oppression. He described their condition as “gender apartheid,” calling it unprecedented in today’s world. According to him, women in Afghanistan live as virtual prisoners, unable to access basic freedoms like movement, education, and work.
“I am deeply concerned for the long-term future of a country that is self-harming on a national scale,” he added.
Afghan Girls Demand Their Right to Education
While Afghan authorities claim to protect women’s rights, girls in the country continue to demand access to education. Many have been out of school for nearly three years. Their dreams and ambitions remain on hold as the Taliban-led government refuses to lift restrictions.
Beheshta, a student deprived of education, expressed her frustration. She said her hopes for a better future have been shattered.
“If a girl cannot go to school, how can she contribute to the progress of society and the country?” she asked. She urged the Islamic Emirate to reopen schools so girls can continue their studies.
Zahra, another student, echoed similar concerns. She emphasized that education is crucial for girls to achieve their goals and contribute to society.
“Schools and universities must reopen so that girls can pursue their dreams,” she said.
Global Pressure on Afghanistan Continues
International concerns over women’s rights in Afghanistan remain strong. Several governments and human rights organizations have called for immediate changes. They warn that restricting education and employment for women will have long-term consequences for Afghanistan’s development.
The Islamic Emirate, however, maintains that it protects women’s rights within the framework of Islamic rulings. Officials argue that the restrictions align with their interpretation of Islamic law. Despite global criticism, they have shown no signs of reversing their policies.
A Growing Crisis for Afghan Women
The ban on education and jobs has left millions of Afghan women without opportunities. Many face severe economic hardships. Others struggle with mental health issues due to isolation and lack of purpose.
Women who once worked in different fields now remain at home, unable to contribute to their families’ income. The restrictions have also affected Afghanistan’s economy, limiting its growth and potential.
Human rights activists continue to pressure world leaders to take stronger action. They believe that isolating Afghanistan diplomatically and economically could push the Taliban to change its policies.
For now, Afghan women and girls remain in limbo. Their hopes depend on whether the international community can successfully influence Afghanistan’s leadership. Until then, many young girls like Beheshta and Zahra can only wait and hope for a future where they can return to school.
Related Stories:
Taliban Bans Afghan Women from Nursing and Midwifery Education, Deepening Healthcare Crisis
UN concerned over detentions of Afghan women by Taliban
Taliban Official Calls for Lifting Ban on Women’s Education in Afghanistan
