As we mark the third anniversary of the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, we reflect on the severe challenges Afghan women and girls continue to face under oppressive restrictions. According to the United Nations report, The Taliban has issued at least 70 decrees and directives that directly target the autonomy, rights, and daily lives of women and girls. Vital Voices has been investing in Afghan women leaders for over two decades, supporting women-led organizations and shelters throughout the country, political leaders, and bold entrepreneurs. Our unwavering support for Afghan women’s leadership and rights remains resolute, enabling them to continue their fight for equality and representation.
Following the fall of Kabul in August 2021, Vital Voices, in collaboration with the Department of State and the University of Georgetown’s Institute of Women, Peace, and Security (GIWPS), successfully evacuated over 1,200 women leaders and their families, with only nine remaining for permanent resettlement. We are steadfast in our belief that women’s leadership can drive transformative change and are hopeful that these leaders will contribute to establishing an inclusive and positive peace.
In partnership with local organizations across Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Albania, and Turkey, Vital Voices continues to support women leaders and women-led initiatives. Despite significant risks, our efforts are driven by a steadfast commitment to uphold women’s rights and support their leadership. Our advocacy includes working with women-led initiatives in exile to challenge the system of gender apartheid and ensure their meaningful inclusion in political discussions.
Our support reaffirms our dedication to the fundamental human rights of Afghan women—the right to education, employment, freedom of movement, and protection from gender-based violence. We stand firmly with Afghan women in their courageous struggle and remain resolute in supporting their leadership, both in exile and within Afghanistan.
As the global community, we must stand alongside Afghan women in their fight for equality, freedom, and dignity. Let us not be silent as a nation’s women are silenced.
Please join us for an event at our global headquarters or tune in on August 23rd, 2024, as we announce an exciting next chapter of our work to support the heroism of Afghan women and our work through the Aghaaz Program.