The Situation of Afghan Women

Introduction

The story of women's rights in Afghanistan is one of significant highs and lows. In the late 20th century, especially the 1960s and 1970s, Afghan women experienced notable progress. They had better access to education and jobs and were active in public life. However, this progress was disrupted after the Soviet invasion.

When the Taliban took over in the 1990s, women's rights suffered greatly. Women were largely excluded from public life, denied education, and restricted in their movements. After the Taliban fell in 2001, women's rights improved once again with international support. Afghan women could go to school, work, and participate in politics. The 2004 Afghan Constitution supported women's rights, and international programs helped improve their situation. “I still remember how beautiful it was to wake up in the morning, see everyone leaving for work, education, and social activities.” However, during the Democratic Republic government, women faced harassment in the workplace and lacked recognition for their talents. At least there was hope; women could step out of their homes without male accompaniment. But since August 2021 and the fall of Afghanistan and U.S. withdrawal, it has become incredibly difficult for Afghan girls and women to breathe freely.

When I think of the current situation of Afghan women, I feel like I’m in a nightmare. Let’s discuss the current challenges they face:

1. Education: The Taliban has severely restricted girls' education. Many girls can no longer attend secondary school, and universities have imposed strict limits on female students.

2. Employment: Women’s job opportunities have been drastically reduced. Many women who previously worked in various fields, including government and education, have lost their jobs or face significant obstacles.

3. Freedom of Movement: Women need permission from a male guardian to travel and often cannot leave their homes freely. Imagine staying at home all day and not being able to go out without a man accompanying you.

4. Freedom of Speech: Women can’t speak loudly in public because it is against the rules; if the Taliban hears them talking loudly, they will take them to the prison.

5. Human Rights Violations: There have been documented reports of human rights abuses against women, including arbitrary arrests, forced marriages, and gender-based violence. Many international observers and human rights groups view these practices as discriminatory and abusive. The Taliban claims to defend Islam, but they are not true to its teachings. If they read the Quran, they would find principles that support women's rights. For instance:

• Education: While there isn’t a specific verse mandating education for all, many verses encourage the pursuit of knowledge. Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11) suggests that God will raise those who have knowledge in degrees. The Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge for both men and women.

• Work: The Quran acknowledges the roles of both men and women in various capacities. Surah An-Nisa (4:32) speaks about the roles and responsibilities of men and women and advises against envy of one another’s roles. It implies that both genders have valuable roles to play.

• Life Balance: The Quran promotes fairness and justice in relationships and responsibilities. For example, Surah An-Nisa (4:34) addresses the responsibilities of spouses towards each other, emphasizing mutual respect and support, which can be interpreted as advocating for a balanced life.

6. Healthcare: Access to healthcare, particularly reproductive health services, has been limited. Women struggle to obtain medical care, leading to worsening health issues and higher maternal mortality rates.

Conclusion

Last but not least, the Quran doesn’t specifically address modern concepts of equal rights for education and work, but it does promote fairness, respect, and justice, which support these rights. Interpretations of these principles can vary, and today’s educated Islamic scholars often explore how they align with current views on gender equality. The situation for Afghan women under the Taliban is extremely challenging, with significant declines in their rights, freedoms, and safety. I wish I could help all Afghan women escape from Afghanistan. Afghan women are incredibly smart and capable; they just need opportunities.

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Written by Farishta Shams. Farishta is an Afghan woman currently living in the United States. She volunteers with Massachusetts Afghan Alliance, assisting newly-resettled Afghan families.