2024-12-21 20:22:00
NARRATIVE – Deprived of a future and hope, over 70% of Afghan women suffer from depression and educate themselves clandestinely, learning foreign languages to one day be able to escape the closed doors of Islamism.
« Come, heaven, cry with me… Cry tulips and purple flowers! » Barely covering his sobs, more shouted than sung, the poet Fisent Durani’s lament tears through the atrium of the medical institute, somewhere in Afghanistan. At the beginning of December, the students just learned of the latest decree imposed on them by the Taliban regime: since they are women, they no longer have the right to continue their studies in the medical field… The only thing they were still allowed to do in this country where the UN accuses the Taliban of imposing a ” apartheid the genre “. First, in 2022, girls were barred from studying beyond primary school. In 2023, following monstrous logic, they were in turn barred from higher education.
And then, last February, considering that a woman cannot be treated by a male doctor, the Taliban finally allowed the new generation to…
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Q&A: The dire State of Women’s education in Afghanistan under the Taliban
Editor: Thank you for joining us today to discuss the crisis surrounding women’s education in Afghanistan.Recent reports indicate that over 70% of Afghan women are suffering from depression due to the Taliban’s oppressive policies. Can you elaborate on how these policies impact women’s mental health?
Expert: Absolutely. The systemic denial of education and basic rights has led to a bleak future for many women in Afghanistan. The statistics are alarming; over 70% have reported feelings of hopelessness and depression. When women are barred from education, they are deprived of opportunities for personal growth, economic independence, and engagement in society. This isolation fosters despair and diminishes their mental health, making the situation even more precarious.
Editor: The Taliban’s restrictions on education began soon after their takeover in August 2021 when girls were first prohibited from attending secondary schools. What are the specific implications of this ongoing educational ban?
Expert: The educational ban is significant not only for its immediate impact on girls but also for Afghanistan as a whole. Education is foundational for societal advancement. By excluding women from educational opportunities, the Taliban is stunting the country’s overall growth potential. As an example, without female medical professionals, the healthcare system is severely compromised, particularly since cultural norms prevent male doctors from treating female patients. This could lead to increased health crises for women and children, creating an entire generation without adequate medical care.
Editor: You mentioned cultural norms that affect healthcare provisions. How does this play into the Taliban’s justification for their policies?
Expert: The Taliban often uses cultural and religious justifications to impose restrictions. they argue that women’s education is unneeded or inappropriate based on their interpretation of Islamic law. However,many scholars and activists assert that afghan culture itself does not oppose women’s education. The overwhelming resistance from the Afghan populace against these bans demonstrates a significant cultural disconnect. Many women are resorting to clandestine education to learn foreign languages and othre skills in hopes of escaping these oppressive conditions.
Editor: The passive resistance among Afghan women, like clandestine learning, showcases amazing resilience. What do you think could be done to support these efforts?
Expert: Supporting grassroots organizations that facilitate clandestine education is crucial.International awareness and aid can help these organizations provide resources and safe learning environments. Additionally,engaging in diplomatic pressure on the Taliban to recognize women’s rights as human rights can also create a pathway for change. It’s vital that the international community amplifies the voices of Afghan women and pushes for their rights to education and self-determination.
Editor: As we discuss the future, what can readers do to contribute to this cause while keeping their efforts informed and effective?
Expert: Readers can start by educating themselves about Afghan women’s struggles and sharing their stories on social media or within their communities to raise awareness. Supporting NGOs that focus on women’s rights in Afghanistan can also make a tangible difference. Advocacy for policy changes at national levels is essential, as well. By urging their governments to take a stand against the Taliban’s restrictions, readers can help ensure that Afghan women have the chance to reclaim their rights and future.
Editor: Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue and offering insights into how we can definitely help. The plight of Afghan women must not be forgotten, and it is indeed incumbent on all of us to advocate for change.
Expert: It’s imperative that we continue to shine a light on these issues and strive for a future where Afghan women can freely pursue education and their rights without fear or repression. Thank you for this critically important discussion.