Strength amidst adversity - how Afghan women are adapting to life under the de facto government.
Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, Afghan women have experienced profound changes in their daily lives. The de facto government has reinstated many restrictions, severely limiting the rights and freedoms of women and girls.
Yet, in the face of these challenges, Afghan women have shown extraordinary determination and strength, finding ways to resist and adapt. Here, we explore five significant ways their lives have changed, highlighting both the difficulties they face and their ongoing fight for their rights.
1. Employment Reduced - But Entrepreneurs Rise
Women have been largely excluded from the workforce, particularly in government jobs and NGOs where they would interact with men. In response, many women have turned to the private sector or entrepreneurship, starting small businesses from their homes. Run within local communities, the enterprises allow women to maintain some financial independence and continue to support their families, with dignity.Â
One of our program graduates, Ferhana, shares the positive impact her business has on her family; giving them both a livelihood and a sense of hope.
2. Public Life Diminished - But Women Persist
The de facto government's measures have significantly curtailed women’s freedom of movement and participation in public life, including women's presence in parks, hammams (public bath houses) and gyms. Despite restrictions, Afghan women can be seen going for walks and runs - alone and in groups - every morning after prayers and exercise in their homes. They continue to socialize in the public spaces available to them.
Afghan women have also ensured their place at international forums, including those hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs. Whether or not they have been invited, they have bravely taken a space at the table where they insist on contributing their vast experience.Â
3. Education Restricted - But Learning Continues
Secondary schools for girls were shut down soon after the Taliban seized power, and in December 2022, the government banned women from attending secondary schools and universities. Despite this, many girls and women have pivoted with determination.
They are attending alternative schools that provide technical courses and programs or are taking part in homeschooling. This reflects Afghan women's enduring commitment to their right to education and lifelong learning.Â
OUR WORK IN AFGHANISTAN
4. Psychological Impact - But Women’s Strength Shines Through
For many Afghan women, the psychological impact is compounded by the isolation they experience due to restrictions on their movement and social interactions. The inability to engage in activities, such as going to school past the age of twelve, has resulted in a profound sense of hopelessness and despair. Women and girls who were once active members of society, contributing to their communities and supporting their families, now find themselves mostly confined to their homes, stripped of their autonomy and agency over their future.
Despite the challenges, stories like Yusra’s illustrate the incredible strength of Afghan women. Read her reflections below.
5. Women's Voices Silenced on All Sides - But Engagement Continues
Our "Lost in Consultation" report uncovers the significant deficit in the international community’s commitment to upholding Afghan women’s rights, as the United Nations fails to include women at the meeting on Afghanistan hosted in Doha.
Compiled from responses of 213 women-led organizations across Afghanistan, this report sheds light on the urgent need for accountability and transparency.
