The Taliban claim to uphold Afghan women’s rights while the UN condemns their education and employment bans. Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, stated women’s rights are prioritized, contrasting this with the UN’s call for lifting restrictions. The international community emphasizes support for Afghan women amidst ongoing discussions on their rights and recognition.

The Taliban have asserted that Afghan women enjoy security and their rights are upheld, issuing their claims on International Women’s Day despite ongoing criticisms from the United Nations regarding severe restrictions on women’s freedoms. Following their takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban have enforced laws limiting women’s education, employment, and public presence. Last August, they established regulations that restrict women from voicing opinions and appearing in public without veiling.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s chief spokesman, emphasized through his official X account that the organization prioritizes women’s dignity and rights within the framework of Islamic law and Afghan cultural norms. He argued that the situation of Afghan women, both physically and psychologically, is secure, while also acknowledging that their rights must be viewed through an Afghan lens, differing from Western perspectives.

Meanwhile, the UN continues to call for the lifting of restrictions imposed by the Taliban. Roza Otunbayeva, head of the UN mission in Afghanistan, expressed that “the erasure of women and girls from public life cannot be ignored.” The commitment to fostering resilience and leadership among Afghan women remains crucial for the country’s future, according to the UN.

Alison Davidian, the special representative for UN Women in Afghanistan, stated that it is unacceptable for the world to allow Afghan women’s exclusion from society, stressing the importance of standing in solidarity with them. The perceptions of Afghan women are being tested, and support is crucial for maintaining their rights.

Additionally, the Taliban’s standing in the international community remains precarious primarily due to their treatment of women and girls. Recent discussions regarding women’s rights were held at a UNESCO conference in Paris, featuring prominent Afghan women and rights advocates. In contrast, a spokesperson for the Vice and Virtue Ministry criticized these international gatherings, alleging hypocrisy among participating organizations and the European Union.

In summary, the Taliban insist that they are protecting Afghan women’s rights while facing international condemnation for their extensive restrictions. The United Nations urges the Taliban to reverse their bans, highlighting the significance of women’s roles in Afghanistan’s future. As dialogue continues, the international community remains committed to advocating for Afghan women’s rights amid these challenges.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk

Related posts:

Taliban Authorities Raid Women’s Radio Station Radio Begum in Afghanistan Call to Action: Uniting for Afghan Women’s Rights in Parliament Conflict Erupts Between Pakistan and Taliban Forces in Afghanistan Afghanistan Denies Trump’s Claims of Chinese Forces at Bagram Airfield