On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the United Nations in Afghanistan has urged the country’s de facto authorities to take decisive action to end violence against women and girls. The call comes as Afghan women face heightened restrictions and systemic erosion of their fundamental rights under Taliban rule.
Marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the UN highlighted the alarming levels of violence against women in Afghanistan, worsened by ongoing discrimination and the dismantling of the nation’s gender equality infrastructure.
“We are at a critical juncture for the women and girls of Afghanistan,” said Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Afghanistan. “We need urgent action for justice to end violence against women and girls.”
A worsening crisis
Afghanistan continues to experience some of the highest rates of violence against women globally. The UN noted that access to essential services for survivors of violence has been severely impacted, even as demand for such services has surged.
Since the Taliban’s return to power, women’s rights have been systematically rolled back, leaving women with fewer protections and fewer resources than ever before.
Alison Davidian, Special Representative for UN Women in Afghanistan, emphasized the gravity of the situation: “The fact that Afghan women and girls have fewer rights today than generations ago is a devastating reminder of the urgency of their struggle and the need for the international community to double down on efforts to stand with them.”
Resilience amid adversity
Despite the immense challenges, Afghan women continue to demonstrate resilience and courage. Women’s organizations are providing essential support to survivors of violence, while community and religious leaders are working to challenge harmful social norms.
The UN also highlighted a growing movement among men and boys who are stepping forward to support women in their families and communities amid heightened restrictions.
A global campaign for change
This year’s 16 Days of Activism campaign runs from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. The campaign also coincides with preparations for the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, the UN’s landmark framework for achieving gender equality.
The UN’s mission in Afghanistan remains committed to amplifying the voices of women and girls, advocating for their rights, and addressing their urgent needs. Through partnerships with women’s organizations, prevention programs, and engagement with national and international stakeholders, the UN aims to build a future free from violence against women and girls.
“Violence against women has no justification anywhere in the world, including Afghanistan,” the UN’s statement declared.
