Taliban Restrictions on Women’s Rights and their Impact in Afghanistan

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Abstract

Since their resurgence to power in 2021, the Taliban regime has established one of the strictest and most regressive governments in the world, particularly concerning women’s rights. Since the establishment of the current de facto government, the Taliban have been repeatedly accused of widespread human rights violations, especially against women and girls. The new executive has reintroduced severe restrictions on education, employment, and women’s public participation, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation throughout the country. Moreover, sectors of the administration, from security forces to the judiciary, have been accused of perpetrating atrocious abuses, including executions of women fighting for their rights.

This study analyzes the impact of current policies on the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, focusing on the specific restrictions imposed by authorities, their evolution over time, and the effect of these limitations on their daily lives, particularly in terms of education, employment, and public participation. The research includes testimonies obtained through interviews with knowledgeable personnel on the ground, adding perspective to the understanding of the complexity and severity of the situation. Additionally, the report addresses the contribution of current public policies and civil setbacks to the deterioration of the crisis in Afghanistan and its implications for the country’s stability.