KABUL, Afghanistan — Female teachers in Afghanistan expressed deep concern over the Taliban’s recent decision to reduce their salaries. The policy affects female teachers of sixth grade who have been confined at home since the Taliban’s takeover.
Since seizing control of Afghanistan, the Taliban has banned education for girls above the sixth grade, forcing hundreds of thousands of girls and their teachers to stay home. The Taliban recently announced that these teachers will now receive only 5,000 Afghanis ($70) per month, a drastic cut from their previous earnings.
Many teachers fear that this decision will push them into severe economic hardship. The announcement, communicated through a letter, underscores the difficulties they face in providing for their families. The new salary policy is set to take effect from July 10, coinciding with the start of the solar month of Asad.
Some teachers stressed that 5,000 Afghanis is insufficient to cover basic living expenses. “I taught at the high school level with a bachelor’s degree. Since the girls were confined to their homes, we have also been staying home, and now our monthly salary is reduced to 5,000 Afghanis. This crisis can lead to severe economic problems for us,” said Maria, one of the affected teachers.
Teacher salaries were already modest, with those holding bachelor’s degrees earning between 7,000 to 10,000 Afghanis. “Why should only women’s salaries be reduced? This is truly a disaster for families without a breadwinner. We still need support,” said Shahesta, another teacher.
Many female teachers are the primary providers for their families, and the salary cut exacerbates their financial difficulties. Additionally, some teachers reported that they have not received their salaries for the past two months. “The Taliban issued a statement that teacher salaries would be 5,000 Afghanis. I haven’t received my salary for two months. I used to support our six-member family with 5,000 Afghanis, and unfortunately, there is no accountability,” said Shafiqa, a teacher.
The United Nations has found that since regaining power, the Taliban has issued over 50 decrees that directly and indirectly impact women’s rights, including access to education and employment.
