Amid the second anniversary of the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan’s government, the plight of Afghan women remains a pressing concern, with schools remaining closed for girls for more than 660 days. Stripped of their rights and freedoms, Afghan women have become the sole active group resisting on the streets, vowing never to succumb to the “enemies of freedom”, as voiced by Maryam Marof Arwin, founder of Afghanistan Women and Children Strengthen Welfare Organisation.
The Taliban’s swift rise to power began in early June 2021, with a series of territorial gains across Afghanistan, culminating in the capture of Zaranj, the capital of the Nimruz province, following intense clashes on 6 August. Eventually, they seized control of the country’s capital, Kabul, on 15 August, significantly influenced by the withdrawal of United States forces pursuant to an agreement.
In the wake of the Taliban’s ascension to power in August 2021, women took to the streets in defiance, only to be met with brutal retaliation, including violent attacks and the imposition of sweeping bans on their hard-fought rights and freedoms over the past two decades. The consequences of this oppressive rule have been dire, with countless women enduring imprisonment, torture, rape, and even execution, leading many to seek refuge beyond the country’s borders.
Under the Taliban’s governance, women face severe restrictions on their daily lives, such as being barred from going out alone, attending school, or engaging in employment. The Taliban has altered the country’s name to the “Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan” and renamed the Ministry of Women’s Affairs as the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, effectively shutting out female employees. Their rule is characterised by a strict interpretation of Sharia law, effectively isolating women from crucial aspects of social, cultural, and daily life.
Arwin’s concern lies in the complete eradication of women’s rights under the Taliban’s rule, especially the ban on girls’ education. The closure of schools for girls and the restriction of access to higher and vocational education not only violates women’s fundamental educational rights but also hinders social and economic development.
Despite these oppressive measures, Afghan women exhibit remarkable resilience, continuing to resist and stand strong in their endeavours. Arwin declared that Afghan women would never surrender to the Taliban, branding them as adversaries of humanity and freedom. She called upon the international community and human rights organisations to condemn these actions and strive to shield Afghan women from exploitation and violence.
Arwin emphasised that the fight against the Taliban’s oppressive rule is anticipated to be long-lasting, but Afghan women exude unwavering confidence in their capacity to drive change. Their strategies and solidarity with fellow female fighters are crucial in bringing about meaningful social change and uplifting the status of women in Afghanistan.
