Afganistan: Escalating Restrictions on Women's Rights

According to a report published by the United Nations Human Rights Commission on the occasion of November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, in Afghanistan, since the return of the Taliban, severe restrictions have intensified against women's rights. Girls above the sixth grade are now barred from attending schools, with universities also off limits. The findings of this report are based on the survey of this institution until the end of 2022.

Moreover, Afghan women face limitations in employment opportunities, both in government and non-governmental organizations, and are prohibited from accessing recreation centers, gyms, women's facilities, and undertaking long trips without a male companion.

Disturbing reports reveal widespread instances of violence against women in Afghanistan, spanning verbal, physical, and psychological abuse, alongside systemic gender-based discrimination. Many women recount experiences of domestic violence, oppression, torture, and coerced marriages.

The Taliban administration has issued more than 50 decrees directly aimed at curtailing women's rights, erasing their organized presence in societal affairs, and reinforcing traditional norms that perpetuate gender disparities.

While precise figures are unavailable, some human rights groups assert that gender-based violence in Afghanistan has surged significantly over the past couple of years.

_{Source: BBC, Euronews}