WASHINGTON — Karen Decker, the U.S. chargé d’affaires for Afghanistan, reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to championing gender equality and justice during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Addressing Afghan women directly, Ms. Decker said, “Even though the Taliban are trying to silence you, we hear you.”
Ms. Decker emphasized U.S. support for education and employment opportunities for Afghan women and girls, reiterating the need to protect their rights amid escalating restrictions imposed by the Taliban.
Her remarks come in the wake of the Taliban’s latest directive banning women from studying at medical institutions across Afghanistan. The move, part of a broader crackdown on female education, has been widely condemned.
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expressed concern over the ban, warning of its potentially devastating impact on Afghanistan’s future.
Prominent Afghan figures, including politicians and cricket players, have joined the chorus of criticism. They have called on the Taliban to reverse the decision, which adds to a long list of restrictions imposed on women and girls since the Taliban regained power in August 2021.
Under the Taliban’s rule, girls have been barred from attending school beyond the sixth grade, universities have been closed to female students, and women have been largely excluded from the workforce. Movement in public spaces is heavily restricted, leaving Afghan women with little access to basic freedoms.
Critics argue that these policies not only violate human rights but also undermine Afghanistan’s potential for development and stability.
