Over the past year, women in Afghanistan have demonstrated remarkable grace and bravery as they continue to experience a harsh rollback of their fundamental rights —from being unable to wear what they want, travel long distances on their own, visit public spaces to being banned from University. They have adapted to each new restriction imposed upon them with determination and resilience.
We are heartbroken to learn of the latest decree that women will no longer be able to work for NGOs. We are evaluating what this means for our programs and for our local staff, many of whom are women who provide critical training and support to the women we serve. As always, the safety of our local team in Afghanistan and the women we serve remains our highest priority.
Denying women the right to work deters the economic and social progress of an entire nation. Not allowing women to work in NGOs will severely impact the most vulnerable Afghan women from being able to receive direct aid in a country that is already going through one of the worst humanitarian and economic crisis.
We will not sit by as half the population are denied the right to learn or work or participate in everyday life. Together, with your support we will continue to advocate with and for Afghan women. Just like we have done in the past, we will find other ways to reach them, for example online or other forms of virtual connections. We hope you will support our efforts.
Send a Message of Hope
The women in Afghanistan are experiencing a harsh rollback of their rights. Despite ever increasing restrictions imposed upon them, they are determined to strive for a better life for themselves and their families. Send a message of hope and solidarity to our program participants in Afghanistan to let them know you’re thinking of them in these difficult times.
