Afghan women still barred from education and work, a UN report reveals, highlighting the severe restrictions imposed four years after the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. The ongoing exclusion of women from schools, universities, and most jobs has shattered dreams and livelihoods, leaving families and communities in distress. The report underscores the devastating impact on Afghanistan’s future, as a generation of young women is denied the chance to contribute to society.
UN Highlights Deepening Gender Crisis
The UN Special Representative for Women in Afghanistan, Susan Ferguson, voiced alarm over the persistent barriers faced by women. She noted that the exclusion from secondary schools, universities, and employment is not only a personal tragedy for women but a national loss. The report points to a dire situation where half of female employees in civil society organisations have lost their jobs this year due to shrinking international funding. This financial strain has left women bearing the brunt of declining aid, further limiting their access to opportunities and support.
Funding Cuts Worsen Women’s Plight
The reduction in international aid has hit Afghan women hardest, with over a third of civil society organisations warning that their ability to reach women and girls could soon be severely curtailed or halted entirely. These groups, vital for providing services and advocacy, are struggling to survive amid funding shortages. The loss of jobs and programmes has deepened the isolation of women, who are already excluded from public life and decision-making roles, leaving them with little recourse to challenge the restrictions imposed on them.
Voices of Resilience Amid Oppression
Despite the bleak outlook, Afghan women continue to show remarkable resilience. Activists like Faryal Sayedzada have spoken out, warning that denying women education will have lasting consequences for Afghanistan’s development. She expressed hope that the new academic year might bring changes, allowing girls to return to schools. The courage of these women, who persist in advocating for their rights under oppressive conditions, highlights their determination to shape a better future, even as they face significant personal risks.
Global Concerns and Local Promises
The international community has repeatedly clashed with Afghanistan’s interim government over women’s rights, with education and employment remaining key points of contention. The UN remains committed to supporting women through investments in local organisations and ensuring their voices are heard in global dialogues. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan indicated that efforts are underway to address these issues in accordance with Sharia law, though progress remains slow, leaving many women in limbo as they await tangible change.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The ongoing exclusion of Afghan women still barred from education and work threatens to undermine Afghanistan’s social and economic fabric. The UN’s findings paint a stark picture of a nation losing half its potential, as women are denied the tools to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities. The emotional toll on families is profound, with young girls robbed of their aspirations and women stripped of their agency. The international community’s response, coupled with local advocacy, will be vital in determining whether Afghanistan can reverse this course.
Hope Amid Hardship for Afghan Women
As Afghan women still barred from education and work face an uncertain future, their resilience and the UN’s commitment offer glimmers of hope. The global call for action grows louder, urging the restoration of women’s rights to education and employment. The courage of Afghan women, who continue to resist despite immense challenges, serves as a powerful reminder of their strength. The world watches as Afghanistan grapples with this crisis, hoping for a future where Afghan women still barred from education and work can reclaim their rightful place in society.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 18th, 2025
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