The start of Spring marks a new school year in Afghanistan, but for millions of Afghan girls, the doors to education remain firmly shut. For the fourth consecutive year, the Taliban has upheld its ban on secondary and higher education for girls, a policy that UNESCO estimates has affected at least 1.5 million Afghan girls since 2021.
For over 1280 days, girls have been barred from attending school or seeking any kind of formal education outside their homes. For nearly four years, they have been restricted to their homes only. Additionally, the Taliban has imposed over 100 restrictive edicts, systematically controlling and limiting every aspect of women’s and girls’ lives in Afghanistan.
Setayesh, a 13-year-old Afghan girl, was one of millions of girls who were affected by the Taliban’s complete ban on education for girls. She shares, “I dream of becoming a doctor. These restrictions mean losing every opportunity in life.”
Moska, a 19-year-old Afghan student, also shares, “All the dreams I had for success and a bright future were suddenly shattered due to the political and social circumstances…I dream of one day being able to resume my education, progress in life, and contribute to the reconstruction of my country.”
Ala, a 28-year-old artist and dental assistant, says that Afghan girls are “carrying an overwhelming weight of unfulfilled dreams. They are trapped in a world where doors are closed tighter with every passing moment.”
Beyond the loss of education, their mental health has been severely deteriorating, too. According to a psychologist in Afghanistan after talking to several female patients, “A common theme is the ban from school, which can lead to feelings of isolation.”
Despite the immense challenge that the Taliban has placed on Afghan girls who dream of obtaining an education, Afghan girls remain strong-willed. Some of them have pursued online education – though it is limited – despite risks from the Taliban. They continue to wait, and hope for a future where they can once again walk through school doors and reclaim their dreams. And despite risks, they continue to share their dreams of education and a different future.
The international community must hold the Taliban accountable for the unjust restrictions placed upon Afghan girls. Although there have been condemnations of the Taliban’s policies, action has been limited. There needs to be pressure to enact and enforce change regarding this policy. Afghan girls must not wait for another year to pass where they are denied the right to an education.
The new year marks a time of new opportunities, growth, and hope, but for Afghan women and girls, it is a stark reminder of the lost opportunities and growth. There must be a united effort globally to restore access to education for Afghan girls – and make sure they are not left behind.
You can help by taking action and sending a strong message to your Member of Congress to not forget about Afghan girls and women.
Sources: UNESCO, BBC, Amu TV
