The article discusses the forced repatriation of over 80 Afghan women who fled the Taliban for education in Oman. Their USAID-funded scholarships were abruptly terminated due to funding cuts imposed by President Donald Trump. The women face dire consequences of returning home, including limited access to education and potential threats to their safety. They seek urgent international intervention and support.

The withdrawal of U.S. military presence from Afghanistan has precipitated a severe crisis for Afghan women seeking education abroad. Following President Donald Trump’s imposition of significant cuts to foreign aid in January, more than 80 Afghan women residing in Oman, who had fled the Taliban to pursue higher education, face imminent repatriation to Afghanistan. Their scholarships, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), have been abruptly terminated due to the severe funding freeze.

The scholarship program aimed to support Afghan women’s studies in fields critical to their future, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Unfortunately, since the Taliban took control nearly four years ago, many of these subjects have been rendered inaccessible to women. One student emotionally recounted the shock of the situation, stating, “It was heartbreaking. Everyone was shocked and crying. We have been told we will be sent back within two weeks.”

The abrupt funding cuts have had widespread implications beyond individual scholarships, affecting various humanitarian programs that rely on USAID support to combat issues such as health crises and starvation in fragile nations. Afghan women in Oman are urgently appealing for international intervention, indicating their dire need for protection and assistance if they are forced to return home. One student articulated the gravity of their situation, saying, “We need immediate protection, financial assistance and resettlement opportunities to a safe country where we can continue our education.”

Many of the women involved in this program had qualified for scholarships in 2021, prior to the Taliban’s drastic regime changes. Most had fled to Pakistan last September before moving to Oman, aided by USAID. While in Oman, these women have been afforded opportunities to learn and grow, but their eventual return threatens their safety, educational pursuits, and freedom as they anticipate severe consequences under the Taliban’s rule. One concerned student noted, “We won’t be able to study and our families might force us to get married. Many of us could also be at personal risk due to our past affiliations and activism.”

The Taliban’s regime has instituted harsh policies surrounding women’s education, which many contend equate to gender apartheid. A student condemned their current plight, highlighting that Afghanistan’s leadership remains steadfast in enforcing restrictions they claim align with Islamic Sharia law. These realities starkly contrast the promises and support that these women once received through the USAID programs projected to last until 2028. In light of their impending displacement, the women expressed feelings of despair, likening their existence to that of “dead bodies moving around” under the oppressive regime, stressing a desperate appeal for help amid their impending crisis.

Moreover, Anna Kelly, Deputy Press Secretary at the White House, attributed the deteriorating conditions for Afghan women to the withdrawal decisions made by the previous administration. The fate of these women underscores the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy decisions and their tangible impact on the lives of vulnerable populations in Afghanistan.

In summary, the abrupt termination of scholarships for Afghan women by USAID due to funding cuts has resulted in a dire situation where over 80 students face forced repatriation to a country where their rights and education are severely compromised. In light of the Taliban’s oppressive policies, these women are advocating for immediate international intervention and support. The ongoing humanitarian crisis bears witness to the consequences of political decisions, particularly for marginalized communities, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive global awareness and assistance in the protection of their rights and educational opportunities.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

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