Taliban Leader Ensures Protection of Women’s Rights in Afghanistan
Kandahar, Afghanistan – In a recent statement, Hibatullah Akhundzada, the supreme leader of the Afghan Taliban, announced measures taken by the interim government to safeguard the rights of women in the country. Akhundzada, who usually operates from the Taliban’s birthplace in Kandahar, addressed the public on Sunday to mark the beginning of the Eid ul Adha holidays.
The Taliban-led government is working towards providing women with a life of comfort and prosperity in accordance with Islamic Sharia. This announcement comes in response to the concerns raised by the United Nations regarding the deprivation of women’s rights under the Taliban rule and the emergence of gender apartheid.
Since their return to power in August 2021, the Taliban authorities have imposed several restrictions on women. Girls and women have been prohibited from attending high school or university, and they are no longer allowed to visit parks, gyms, or public baths. Moreover, they are mandated to cover themselves when leaving their homes. Additionally, women are barred from working for international organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and many female government employees have either been dismissed or paid to stay at home.
Contrary to these actions, Akhundzada’s statement highlights the steps taken for the betterment of women as an integral part of society. He emphasized that all institutions are obligated to assist women in securing their rights related to marriage, inheritance, and other aspects. A six-point decree issued in December 2021 plays a crucial role in ensuring women’s rights, outlawing forced marriages, and guaranteeing the rights to inheritance and divorce.
Akhundzada further stated, “The negative aspects of the past 20-year occupation regarding women’s hijab and misguidance will soon come to an end.” These assertions come in response to a report by Richard Bennett, the special rapporteur for Afghanistan, who presented to the UN’s Human Rights Council the dire situation faced by women and girls in the country. Bennett described the discrimination against women as institutionalized and expressed concerns over potential gender apartheid.
Although Akhundzada rarely makes public appearances, his periodic statements preceding significant Muslim festivals and holidays provide insight into the Taliban’s perspective. He praised Afghanistan’s economic resilience, efforts to combat poppy cultivation, and the improvement in national security. He urged the public to stand united, eliminate conspiracies, prioritize security and prosperity, and work together to further enhance the Islamic system.
Published in PakWeb, June 25, 2023.
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