The UN rapporteur on Afghanistan advocates for FIFA to address gender oppression faced by the national women’s football team post-Taliban takeover. The team, unable to compete internationally, seeks global solidarity for their return to sports. Captains of the team emphasize the need for collective action among athletes worldwide to combat gender-based violence and advocate for women’s rights in sports.

The UN special rapporteur on Afghanistan is advocating for FIFA to take a definitive stand regarding gender oppression in the country, particularly concerning the national women’s football team. Since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, Afghan women have been excluded from international football competitions and many players fled due to fears of persecution. They now seek global support to reintegrate into the sport.

The women’s national team remains barred from competing internationally, as FIFA mandates recognition by a national federation, and the Taliban-led Afghan Football Federation prohibits female participation in sports. Despite claims from the Taliban of respecting women’s rights per Islamic law, the situation for female athletes remains dire.

In a recent news briefing organized by the Sports & Rights Alliance, team captain Mursal Sadat emphasized the need for solidarity among athletes worldwide, stating the importance of uniting to support women. She added that a simple act, like posting a video, would signify acknowledgment against gender-based violence in Afghanistan.

Richard Bennett, the UN’s special rapporteur on Afghanistan, expressed his support for the team’s call for FIFA to act against systematic gender oppression, reinforcing the notion that Afghan women footballers deserve the opportunity to return to international play.

Khalida Popal, the national team’s founder and former captain, clarified that their struggle is not against FIFA but focuses on collaboration. She highlighted the importance of utilizing sports as a platform to address these issues and to prevent other nations from facing similar hardships. As of 2020, Afghanistan had 25 female contracted football players, many of whom have since relocated to Australia due to the current regime’s policies.

The call for FIFA to act against the oppressive conditions faced by Afghan women footballers underscores the critical need for international solidarity in addressing gender oppression in sports. By advocating for action and collaboration, stakeholders seek to create a pathway for Afghan women to re-enter the sporting arena and pave the way for enhanced gender equality in football. It is essential for athletes worldwide to rally in support of these efforts for a more inclusive future.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com

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