The UN’s strong condemnation of the Taliban’s plan to ban international NGOs from education highlights the potential dire consequences of such a decision. The departure of foreign NGOs would significantly impact the country’s already struggling education system, particularly for girls and young women who already face severe restrictions.
The UN spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, emphasized that education is a fundamental right for every person and called for the de facto authorities to guarantee access to education for children and young adults. The UN is engaging with the Taliban to gather more information about the planned ban and its implications.
This proposed ban is part of a series of restrictions imposed by the Taliban, including the December 2022 decree that banned Afghan women from working with NGOs. Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, they have gradually curtailed human and women’s rights, pushing women further into the shadows. Many women have lost their jobs or been forced to resign from both government and private sector positions.
The recent poisoning of nearly 80 female students in schools in the Sar-e-Pul province highlights the challenges faced by women and girls in accessing education in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The motive behind the poisonings appears to be a personal grudge against the schools, according to Mohammad Rahmani, the head of the provincial education department.
Overall, the situation in Afghanistan remains concerning, with restrictions on education, especially for women and girls, being a significant issue. The international community, including the UN, continues to advocate for the protection of human rights and access to education for all Afghans.
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