Amidst the Taliban’s four-year ban on girls’ education, Afghan women activists have launched the ‘Let’s Study’ campaign, marking the start of the new academic year with a strong message against the oppressive rules. Afghanistan remains the only country in the world where secondary and higher education is entirely prohibited for girls. Despite these restrictions, women continue to fight for their rights, demanding access to education and international support.
Background of the Ban and Its Impact
Since the Taliban’s return to power, over 400,000 Afghan girls have been deprived of education as they remain blocked from attending secondary and higher institutions. Activists have voiced their outrage online, condemning the Taliban as an “ignorant terrorist group” that systematically oppresses women and violates human rights.
The campaign also calls on the global community to take action in supporting Afghan women’s rights, emphasizing that the de facto authorities offer no hope for gender equality. The ban on education is not just a violation of human rights but a long-term crisis that threatens the country’s future.
International Reactions and Support
The European Union (EU) has reiterated its support for Afghan women’s right to education. On Sunday, EU representatives in Afghanistan stressed that educating women is critical to the country’s resilience, stability, and economic independence.
“Education for all is vital for Afghanistan’s long-term resilience and prosperity. Educated women, with their vital skills and knowledge, are the builders of a stronger, more stable, and economically independent country. The EU supports their right to education,” the EU delegation to Afghanistan posted on social media platform X.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) also called for urgent action. As Afghanistan entered a new school year, UNICEF urged authorities to lift the education ban, warning that if it continues until 2030, over 40 million girls will be deprived of schooling beyond the primary level.
Dire Consequences of the Ban
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlighted the devastating consequences of the Taliban’s policy, emphasizing the long-term damage to Afghanistan’s health system, economy, and social stability.
“The consequences for these girls and Afghanistan are dire. The ban has a negative impact on the health system, economy, and the future of the nation. With fewer girls getting education, they are at greater risk of child marriage, which affects their health and well-being,” Russell stated.
She reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to advocating for Afghan girls’ right to education and called on the Taliban to immediately lift the ban. “Education is not just a fundamental right; it is the path to a healthier, more stable, and prosperous society,” she added.
The Grim Reality of Education Under Taliban Rule
According to UNESCO’s 2024 data, 14 million girls have been deliberately excluded from schooling under Taliban rule. The crisis extends beyond secondary and higher education, as access to primary education has also sharply declined, with 11 million fewer children—both boys and girls—attending school than before the Taliban’s takeover.
The ‘Let’s Study’ campaign is a bold statement against the Taliban’s education ban, representing Afghan women’s resilience and determination. As international organizations and activists rally for their rights, the struggle for education in Afghanistan remains a crucial issue on the global stage. The call for action grows louder, urging the global community to stand in solidarity with Afghan women and demand immediate reforms.
(With inputs from agencies)
