Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – The European Union has strongly denounced the Taliban following reports that Afghanistan’s leadership has ordered public and private institutions to halt medical education for women and girls. This marks yet another blow to women’s rights under the Taliban regime.
According to multiple media outlets, five institutions have already received directives to suspend courses in nursing and midwifery, with female students being barred from returning to classes effective immediately. While the Taliban has not officially confirmed the decision, the EU called it an “appalling violation of fundamental human rights” and a severe blow to Afghanistan’s already fragile health sector.
“This decision deepens the humanitarian crisis and exacerbates the suffering of the Afghan people,” the EU said in a statement, urging the Taliban to reverse the policy.
The ban comes after the Taliban previously prohibited schooling for girls beyond grade six in 2021 and banned women from universities in 2022. Medical education was one of the few remaining avenues for women to pursue formal education.
Widespread Concerns
The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed grave concern over the sustainability of Afghanistan’s healthcare system if female medical training ceases. “Such measures will severely impact the availability of qualified female health professionals and disrupt essential health services,” said WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris.
An anonymous senior Afghan health official warned of dire consequences if the ban becomes permanent. “Maternal and child mortality rates will rise in remote areas due to a lack of female medical staff,” he cautioned.
