Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – The United Nations in Afghanistan has issued a powerful appeal to the Taliban-led Islamic Emirate, calling for immediate measures to halt violence against women and girls and to reverse the systematic dismantling of women’s rights that perpetuates such abuses.
In a statement marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the UN highlighted Afghanistan’s alarmingly high rates of gender-based violence, exacerbated by entrenched discrimination across all spheres of life.
“We are at a critical juncture for the women and girls of Afghanistan. Urgent action is needed to deliver justice and end violence against women,” said Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Afghanistan.
The statement coincides with the launch of the global “16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence” campaign, running from November 25 to December 10, Human Rights Day.
“The fact that Afghan women and girls have fewer rights today than generations ago is a devastating reminder of their struggle,” said Alison Davidian, UN Women’s Special Representative in Afghanistan. She called on the international community to amplify support for Afghan women through resilience, leadership, and empowerment initiatives.
The Islamic Emirate maintains that women’s rights are upheld within the framework of Sharia law, a claim that has faced widespread international criticism amidst reports of growing restrictions on education, employment, and public life for Afghan women.
The UN’s urgent plea underscores the dire need for both local and global action to restore fundamental rights and protections for women and girls in Afghanistan.
