Women in Afghanistan are facing a brutal reality under Taliban rule. Denied basic rights and education, they are taking matters into their own hands.

Purple Saturdays Movement leads charge:

Maryam Maroof Arvin, co-founder of the Purple Saturdays Movement, exemplifies the resilience of Afghan women. This women’s rights group stages weekly protests, defying the Taliban’s restrictions on freedom of assembly. They also fill the educational void by secretly teaching girls barred from attending secondary school.

International aid fades, women step up:

The withdrawal of international aid organizations has left the most vulnerable, particularly women, struggling. The Purple Saturdays Movement steps in, providing aid to single mothers and needy families while caring for orphans.

Left behind by the UN? Women demand representation:

Arvin voices the frustration of many Afghan women regarding the UN’s negotiations with the Taliban. They believe these talks ignore the voices of women, who are directly affected by Taliban policies.

Taliban seeks recognition, not reform:

The recent Taliban meeting in Doha, Qatar, highlighted their agenda. They refused to discuss women’s rights, emphasizing it as an “internal matter.” Their focus lies on gaining international recognition and lifting sanctions to access frozen Afghan assets.

Economic crisis deepens plight:

Afghanistan faces a dire economic situation due to frozen bank accounts, extensive sanctions, and the exodus of skilled professionals. The UN reports that 97 per cent of the population now lives in poverty.

Beyond international aid – Call for domestic resistance:

Hazrat Vahriz, an Afghan author, believes Afghans must fight for their own rights. He cautions against dependence on international intervention, especially considering the Taliban’s focus on appeasing powerful nations.

Coalition for change:

Arvin calls for unity. She urges human rights activists, intellectuals, and dissidents to join forces and build a stronger domestic resistance against the Taliban.

Women at forefront of long fight:

The struggle for Afghan women is far from over. Yet, their determination is evident. They are mobilizing, advocating, and educating – laying the groundwork for a future where their voices are heard.

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