By Zohal Faizy
Before the fall of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, International Women’s Day (March 8) was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in Afghanistan and around the world, as well as to continue the fight for gender equality.
At that time, women’s and girls’ rights were somewhat respected, and they enjoyed some fundamental freedoms. The government was also somewhat responsive to women’s needs in education and employment and sought to increase their participation in society and both governmental and private institutions.
During the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, women had more legal rights. Schools and universities were open to girls, and many were able to complete higher education. Both the government and international organizations implemented programs to improve literacy and women’s participation in society. Women had a significant presence in various fields, including media, politics, economy, and culture, and many held positions in government, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. Even in sensitive sectors such as judiciary, law, and security forces, women played active roles.
Despite these advancements, obstacles such as insecurity, gender discrimination, and restrictive traditions still prevented women from fully attaining their rights. Nevertheless, efforts to improve the situation continued, and there was hope for a brighter future.
With the Taliban’s return to power on August 15, 2021, the situation for women changed drastically. The Taliban’s first action was to close schools and universities to girls, depriving them of education. They then imposed strict laws, enforcing mandatory dress codes and making it illegal for women to leave their homes without a male guardian. Over time, they removed women from many government and private sector jobs, effectively forcing them into isolation. Some reports indicate that the Taliban have even forced unmarried women and widows to marry their members. One of their latest actions against women was the closure of medical institutes, which were the last remaining educational opportunities for girls.
March 8, which is celebrated worldwide as a day to honor women and their achievements, has now become a day of mourning and a symbol of oppression for Afghan women and girls. While women in other countries strive for further progress, Afghan women are fighting for their most basic human rights. Celebrating Women’s Day and reclaiming women’s rights in Afghanistan now seems like an impossible dream
