KABUL: In recent times, Afghanistan has witnessed significant changes that have deeply impacted the lives of women and girls, particularly with regard to their education, employment, and freedom of movement. A comprehensive report sheds light on the evolving landscape, revealing that more than half of the 80 religious edicts and decrees have directly imposed stringent limitations on women and girls, hindering their ability to pursue their own interpretations of religious beliefs.
The report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) underscores the profound transformation of Afghanistan’s education sector, characterized by a series of written and oral decrees enacted since 2021. Among the most noteworthy changes are the bans on co-education and secondary education for girls. Additionally, female students have faced restrictions on pursuing certain fields of study such as journalism, law, agriculture, and sciences. These prohibitions extend to female students being disallowed from participating in annual university entry exams. These educational restrictions have far-reaching implications, stifling the intellectual and professional growth of Afghan women.
Women’s freedom of movement has also been severely curtailed under the new regime, marked by restrictions on employment opportunities, access to parks, and even visits to beauty salons. These limitations hinder women’s ability to engage with society, explore economic opportunities, and participate in leisure activities. Such restrictions are not only detrimental to individual women but also impact the broader social fabric of the country.
The report features personal testimonies that provide insight into the challenges faced by Afghan women. Asra, a 23-year-old economics student and beauty salon employee, opens up about how the restrictions on education and employment have adversely affected her mental health. Her plea to allow all Afghan women the opportunity to work, study, and live resonates with the collective aspirations of many women striving for empowerment.
Women’s rights activists have expressed deep concern over the continued imposition of such restrictions, highlighting the potential negative impact on both women and the current government. These advocates emphasize the importance of open doors to education, universities, and the right to freedom and work for women. They assert that focusing on women’s rights and inclusion is essential for building a brighter future for both Afghan citizens and the government itself.
While the Islamic Emirate has not directly commented on the findings of the report, it has previously stated that women’s rights are upheld in accordance with Islamic Sharia law. However, the evolving landscape has sparked a robust conversation about the interpretation of Islamic teachings and the implications for women’s rights.
