UN Concerned By Continued Education Ban in Afghanistan

The UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said that there is a 76% disparity between the achievements of men and women in various sectors, particularly in education and decision-making.

Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, stated: “The Afghanistan Gender Index points out that Afghanistan has the second-widest gender gap in the world, with a 76 percent disparity between women’s and men’s outcomes in health, education, financial inclusion, and decision-making. According to the UN Women’s report, nearly eight out of 10 young Afghan women are excluded from education, jobs, and training.”

The issue of girls’ education in Afghanistan has consistently been discussed at global forums.

Additionally, the UN Women section reported that 24% of Afghanistan’s workforce are women, while 89% are men—highlighting a major gender disparity in Afghanistan and one of the largest globally.

Lamia Shirzai, a women’s rights activist, said: “If UN organizations truly wish to resolve Afghan women’s and girls’ issues, instead of publishing reports, they should directly engage with the Taliban to find fundamental solutions.”

Haida, an Afghan girl, said: “I was in the third semester of midwifery when the institutes were closed. Unfortunately, we are now left in limbo—education and all opportunities have been taken away from Afghan girls.”

Student Namira added: “My request of the government is to reopen the doors of schools, universities, and jobs for women so that we can have a bright and good future.”

However, in Afghanistan, the Islamic Emirate has called the issue of girls’ education an internal matter and has repeatedly asked organizations and countries worldwide not to interfere in the country’s internal affairs.