PARIS— The Eiffel Tower displayed a message of solidarity with Afghan women on Saturday, March 8, as thousands marched through the streets of Paris to mark International Women’s Day.
The illuminated message, “SOS Afghan Women,” appeared in multiple languages, drawing attention to the severe restrictions imposed on women in Afghanistan since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
According to Amnesty International, violence and discrimination against Afghan women and girls have worsened under Taliban rule. The organization noted that women have been banned from secondary education, employment, television appearances, and even visiting parks.
The United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan has previously stated that the Taliban’s treatment of women could amount to a crime against humanity.
The display in Paris was part of a broader effort by rights groups and activists to keep international attention on the plight of Afghan women, who continue to face systematic oppression under Taliban rule.
