The Taliban government of Afghanistan has refused an invitation to attend a global conference on girls’ education held recently in Pakistan, reinforcing its ongoing policies that restrict women and girls’ rights, particularly in the realm of education.
The conference, which aimed to foster global dialogue on advancing girls’ education, extended an invitation to the Afghan government despite the controversial policies of the Taliban. However, the Taliban declined the invitation, prompting widespread international condemnation.
Prominent human rights activist Farzana Bari condemned the situation in Afghanistan as “gender apartheid,” noting that women’s rights have been systematically undermined since the Taliban’s return to power. She commended the resilience of Afghan women, saying, “Despite state-sponsored aggression and oppression, Afghan women continue to fight for their rights.”
Activist Banish Javed echoed these concerns, highlighting the severe restrictions placed on Afghan girls and women. “Being a girl in Afghanistan has become a crime,” Javed said, referring to the numerous bans on education, employment, and basic freedoms, such as the inability to open windows in homes.
Human rights advocates have consistently criticized the Taliban’s policies, which they argue are often justified under a narrow interpretation of religious principles. The widespread bans on women’s education and employment are seen as clear violations of human rights, drawing significant global criticism.
The Taliban’s restrictive policies have also worsened healthcare challenges for Afghan women, who face limited access to medical services. Bari emphasized that Afghan women’s health is not a priority for the government, exacerbating an already fragile healthcare system.
Despite the Taliban’s claims that these measures are part of an Islamic system, the international community has increasingly condemned their actions. Human rights organizations and activists are urging global pressure to ensure that the Taliban respects the basic human rights of women and girls.
The Taliban’s rejection of the invitation to the conference is seen as a missed opportunity to engage in much-needed dialogue on addressing the pressing issues faced by Afghan women and girls, further isolating the country on the international stage.
