The Taliban‘s recent decision to further restrict women’s visibility in Afghanistan highlights a troubling escalation in gender-based oppression. Announced on December 28, the new mandate requires residential buildings near public spaces to be devoid of windows, effectively confining women to invisibility. This move follows a series of oppressive laws that have stripped women of their rights to education and public participation as the Taliban regained power in 2021. As international scrutiny grows, the regime’s actions raise urgent questions about the future of women’s rights in Afghanistan and the global community’s response to this alarming trend.
Q&A: The TalibanS Mandate on Women’s visibility in afghanistan
Editor (Time.news): Today,we are discussing the Taliban’s recent mandate requiring residential buildings near public spaces to have no windows,effectively further restricting the visibility of women in Afghanistan. With us is Dr. Jamila Afghani, a prominent advocate for women’s rights and the founder of Noor Educational and Capacity Progress. Dr. Afghani, what are your immediate thoughts on this troubling development?
Dr. Jamila Afghani: This mandate is yet another step in a systematic attempt by the Taliban to erase women from public life and society at large. It’s not just about physical visibility; it represents a chilling approach to women’s rights, reinforcing the narrative that women are not to be seen or heard. The implications go far beyond aesthetics; they reflect a broader strategy to control and diminish women’s roles in all areas of life, especially public participation and education.
Editor: It truly seems the Taliban’s actions are part of a larger pattern of oppression as they regained power in August 2021. Can you explain how this fits into the broader landscape of gender-based oppression in Afghanistan?
Dr. Afghani: Absolutely.As their return, the Taliban has enacted a series of laws that have stripped women of basic rights—the right to education, work, and even to access public spaces. Each piece of legislation compounds the others, restricting women’s freedoms and voices systematically. This latest mandate underlines their desire for total control over women’s lives, signaling a shift from making laws to enforcing a life of confinement and invisibility.
Editor: With international scrutiny increasing, many are asking what the global community can do to respond to these gender-based oppressions effectively. What initiatives or actions do you think shoudl be prioritized?
Dr.afghani: The international community must act decisively. First, diplomatic pressure needs to be applied, not just through statements but with tangible consequences for the Taliban’s actions. Additionally, supporting Afghan women-led organizations can amplify their voices on the ground. This includes providing funding and resources to those fighting for women’s rights, such as education and health services, in clandestine ways. Lastly, creating safe corridors for women seeking to escape oppression should also be a priority.
Editor: For our readers looking to support Afghan women and their rights, what practical steps can they take from outside the country?
Dr.Afghani: There are several ways individuals can help. Supporting non-profit organizations that focus on Afghan women’s rights is vital—financial contributions or volunteer work can go a long way. Raising awareness on social media about the plights Afghan women face can also foster a more informed global audience. Additionally, engaging in conversations with policymakers about the importance of Afghan women in diaspora politics is crucial to ensure they have a voice in the decisions affecting their future.
Editor: As a final thought, what message would you like to convey to the international community regarding the plight of Afghan women under Taliban rule?
Dr. Afghani: The message is clear: Afghan women are resilient and have always played a crucial role in their society. Their struggles are not solely theirs; they resonate globally. It’s essential for the international community to stand in solidarity with Afghan women, not only out of moral obligation but as a recognition of their rights as human beings. Invisibility is not an option.We must advocate for their humanity and dignity in every way possible.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Afghani, for your insights and for shedding light on this critical issue. Your work continues to inspire many around the world.
By fostering this dialog, we hope to engage our audience further in understanding and supporting women’s rights in Afghanistan during these challenging times.