Author: رسانه‌ای گوهر شاد

8 months ago - 376 Visits

Author: Mahdi Mozaffari Since the change of regime in Afghanistan in 2021, religious minorities in the country have faced serious threats and targeted brutal attacks. These religious groups, particularly Shia and Sufi communities, have continuously fallen victim to violence and terrorism. The caretaker government, which is responsible for ensuring the security of all Afghan citizens, has so far failed to prevent such heartbreaking incidents. In the latest example of this violence, a bloody terrorist attack occurred at the shrine of "Sayed Padshah Aqa Sadat" in the Nahreen district of Baghlan province. An armed assailant, using a silenced weapon, opened fire on a group of defenseless worshippers who were sitting on prayer mats, killing ten Sufi followers. Videos released from this tragic incident clearly show that these individuals were engaged in worship and prayer when they became targets of this brutal attack. Factors and Roots of Terrorist Attacks against Shia and Sufi Communities Many terrorist and brutal attacks against religious minorities, often carried out by extremist groups such as ISIS, stem from radical and extremist interpretations of Islam that view any ideological or religious difference as a deviation that must be met with violence. Sufis, due to their beliefs and practices deemed deviant by extremist groups, have consistently been targeted. The numerous attacks by takfiri groups in Afghanistan indicate that these groups have particularly focused their brutal operations against Shia and Sufi communities. The United Nations has repeatedly highlighted the increase in violence against these minorities in Afghanistan in its reports. For instance, in its 2023 report, the organization noted at least four major attacks against Sufis in Afghanistan, resulting in dozens of casualties. Among these attacks are the assault on the "Sahib Khalifa" mosque in Kabul and the "Mawlawi Sikandar Sufi" mosque in Kunduz, both occurring in 2022 with heavy casualties. The suicide bombing at Imam Zaman Mosque in Pul Khumri last year during Friday prayers, which resulted in the deaths and injuries of dozens of Shia individuals, is just one prominent example of these attacks against Shia communities in Afghanistan. The Government's Failure to Ensure the Security of Religious Minorities While it was expected that the caretaker government, as the new rulers of Afghanistan, would ensure the security of all citizens, especially religious minorities, they have not only failed in this regard but have also attempted to restrict the religious freedoms of these groups. Local sources in Baghlan report that the current rulers have not only limited the holding of religious ceremonies for Shia Muslims but have also warned Sufis to refrain from conducting their spiritual gatherings. The current government's failure to secure the safety of Shia and Sufi communities indicates that terrorist networks in Afghanistan are well-organized and capable of carrying out complex operations. It must be noted that the continuation of this trend not only jeopardizes the security of Afghanistan but could also contribute to regional instability. To combat this threat, the international community must exert more pressure on the current rulers of Afghanistan to fulfill their commitments regarding counter-terrorism. Additionally, supporting civil society and human rights activists in Afghanistan can play a crucial role in raising public awareness about the dangers of extremism and terrorism. Reasons for the Government's Failure to Ensure Security One of the main reasons for the government's failure to establish security for religious minorities is its "lack of commitment to international obligations." The caretaker government undertook commitments to ensure the security of all Afghans, including religious minorities, by signing the Doha Agreement. However, in practice, this group has not adhered to many of these commitments. The presence of extremist groups such as ISIS-Khorasan also poses a significant challenge to security in Afghanistan. These groups directly attack religious minorities with their highly extremist ideologies, threatening security in the country. On the other hand, the structural and managerial weaknesses of the current rulers present a major obstacle to ensuring security in the country. The leaders face serious challenges in establishing an efficient and accountable government. The lack of professional security forces, bureaucratic corruption, and insufficient infrastructure have all adversely affected the current rulers' ability to maintain security. Furthermore, the caretaker government's discriminatory policies against religious minorities, especially Shia and Sufi communities, have exacerbated tensions and insecurity. Restrictions such as bans on religious ceremonies, destruction of sacred sites, and discrimination in access to public services have heightened feelings of insecurity and distrust among minorities. These policies not only fail to contribute to the stability and security of the country but also fuel hatred and animosity. Another major challenge faced by the caretaker government in ensuring security is the absence of a strong and centralized governmental structure. The current rulers have come to power as a militia group and lack sufficient experience in managing a complex and multicultural country. This has resulted in decision-making often being based on short-term and group interests, neglecting the interests of the entire country, particularly those of minority groups. Consequences of the Government's Failure to Ensure Security The caretaker government's failure to secure the citizens of Afghanistan, particularly religious minorities, has had widespread and detrimental consequences for the country. These repercussions have not only affected the security and stability of Afghanistan but have also exacerbated humanitarian and social crises. One of the most significant consequences of this failure is the escalation of insecurity and instability in Afghanistan. The ongoing terrorist attacks against religious minorities have created an atmosphere of fear and terror within society, eroding the already limited trust of the people in the government. This insecurity has driven away investments, disrupted economic activities, and hindered the reconstruction of the country. Furthermore, the continuation of this situation could lead to the expansion of activities by other terrorist groups and an increase in security threats in the region. Another important consequence of the government's failure in this regard is the displacement of thousands of Afghan people. Terrorist attacks have forced individuals to leave their homes, resulting in a widespread humanitarian crisis. Internally displaced persons face numerous challenges, including a lack of shelter, food, clean water, and healthcare services. This situation has placed immense pressure on the country's limited resources and exacerbated Afghanistan's economic and social problems. Additionally, terrorist attacks against religious minorities have fueled ethnic and religious tensions in Afghanistan and weakened national unity. These attacks have intensified feelings of animosity and hatred among various ethnic and religious groups, leading to deep divisions within society. This environment has obstructed the establishment of an inclusive and accountable government and contributed to the prolongation of the crisis in Afghanistan. The insecurity and instability stemming from terrorist attacks have also worsened the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The need for humanitarian assistance to provide food, medicine, shelter, and other basic necessities for displaced individuals and victims of these attacks has significantly increased. Moreover, this crisis has complicated access to healthcare and education services, causing serious harm to the future generation of Afghanistan. In addition to domestic consequences, the current government's failure to ensure the security of religious minorities has had international repercussions as well. This situation has created a negative image of Afghanistan in the world and reduced international support for the country. Furthermore, it has led to increased tensions in the region and foreign interference in Afghanistan's internal affairs. Effective Solutions for Ensuring the Security of Religious Minorities The caretaker government's failure to ensure the security of religious minorities in Afghanistan has posed serious challenges for the country. To overcome this situation, a set of solutions at both domestic and international levels is essential. At the domestic level, the government must first fulfill its commitments to ensure the security of all citizens of Afghanistan without any discrimination. This requires creating a safe and stable environment for all ethnic and religious groups. Additionally, the government should enhance its management and security capacities by strengthening its governmental structures. Establishing professional and trained security forces, combating administrative corruption, and creating a fair judicial system are among the necessary actions in this regard. Furthermore, the current rulers should promote a discourse of tolerance and coexistence to help reduce ethnic and religious tensions. Creating equal opportunities for all citizens, respecting human rights, and upholding fundamental freedoms are crucial steps that can strengthen national unity. At the international level, the global community must support efforts to ensure security and stability in Afghanistan. Providing humanitarian assistance, investing in various economic and social sectors, and supporting reconstruction and development programs are actions that can help improve the situation in Afghanistan. Additionally, the international community should encourage the current rulers of the country to adhere to their international commitments through diplomacy and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. Regional cooperation is also vital in this context. Afghanistan's neighboring countries can contribute to reducing violence and insecurity by playing a constructive role in the peace and stability process. One of the most important strategies for addressing insecurity in the country is to strengthen regional cooperation. Afghanistan's neighboring countries can help reduce security threats in the region by establishing a joint mechanism to combat terrorism and extremism. Moreover, these countries can assist in enhancing stability and security in Afghanistan by supporting the government in various areas. Inclusive dialogue is another significant strategy for resolving Afghanistan's crisis. Creating a dialogue space among all political and social groups in Afghanistan can help find common solutions to the country's problems. Additionally, holding international conferences with representatives from various countries, international organizations, and civil society groups can raise global awareness about the situation in Afghanistan and mobilize effective international assistance.

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8 months ago - 349 Visits

Local sources from Herat province report that the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has closed all women-only cafés in Herat. At least three sources have confirmed that all women-only cafés have been shut down by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue under the caretaker government in Herat. One source stated that following the deprivation of girls from education, some girls and women had taken the initiative to create women-only cafés. According to available information, at least five women-only cafés were operating in Herat, which were recently closed by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue under the pretext of playing music and allowing women to enter. Local officials of the caretaker government in Herat have not yet made any official statements regarding this matter. This comes at a time when women and girls have faced systematic repression for over three years under the current regime. The restrictions imposed by the current government have resulted in millions of school-aged girls being deprived of education. Additionally, women have been banned from attending sports clubs, restaurants, public baths, being examined by male doctors, traveling without a male guardian, and working in both domestic and international non-governmental organizations, as well as in United Nations offices in Afghanistan.

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8 months ago - 379 Visits

The morality police of the caretaker government in Herat are shutting down women-only cafés. At least three sources reported today (Monday, November 25) that out of the active women-only cafés in Herat, three have been closed by the morality police. Local officials of the current government in Herat have not officially commented on this action so far. Café managers had previously stated that government forces threatened to close these cafés under the pretext of music playing, the presence of uncovered women, and the use of tobacco. They emphasized that the café managers comply with the restrictions imposed by government officials. Currently, five women-only cafés are operating in Herat. These cafés were established after the current government imposed restrictions on the simultaneous presence of men and women in restaurants and cafés in Herat. It is worth noting that since the takeover of the caretaker government, this group has imposed severe educational and occupational restrictions on women. These restrictions have primarily affected families where women are the breadwinners.

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8 months ago - 353 Visits

Author: Mahdi Mozaffari Throughout the tumultuous history of Afghanistan, Afghan women have engaged in a monumental struggle and resilience to secure their fundamental rights and achieve an equal status with men in all areas of social, political, and economic life. This struggle, rooted deeply in the history of Afghanistan, has been influenced by complex internal and external developments, including prolonged wars, changes in political regimes, and social and cultural transformations, and has always been accompanied by many ups and downs. Afghan women have consistently sought to establish their place in society and attain equal rights throughout history. Their struggles under various regimes and in the face of deeply traditional cultures demonstrate that Afghan girls and women are resilient and tireless in their quest for identity and recognition. Women's Struggles before the 1990s Before the rule of the first caretaker government, Afghan women had a significant presence in various fields, including education, employment, and political participation. The first constitution of Afghanistan granted women equal rights with men, and women were active in many public and private professions. Their presence in universities and schools led to an increase in their political and social awareness, gradually enhancing women's roles in important decision-making processes within the country. Despite these advancements, gender inequalities remained one of the main challenges facing Afghan society, with women in many rural areas and regions controlled by warlords having limited access to educational and health facilities. Nevertheless, there was hope for a better future for all Afghan women, and many women's rights activists sought to expand women's rights and freedoms across all areas of life. Unfortunately, even these minimal advancements were fragile; with the rise of the caretaker government in the late 1990s, all women's achievements quickly vanished. Those in power imposed strict and restrictive laws that excluded women from all social and political spheres, confining them to their homes. During the first term of the caretaker government, women were banned from education, work, and public spaces, forced to stay at home, and required to obtain a religious permit for even the slightest activity. These severe restrictions not only harmed women and girls but also severely impacted Afghanistan's economy and development. However, Afghan women never surrendered; they continued their progressive activities secretly. With the fall of the first caretaker government's authority in 2001, Afghan women regained hope and sought to reclaim their lost rights. The Dawn of Hope and the Beginning of Transformations The fall of the caretaker government in 2001, after years of oppression, heralded a new dawn of hope for the women of Afghanistan. With the establishment of the republican regime, a new chapter in the history of this country was written. The enactment of laws supporting women's rights, the opening of schools and universities for girls, and the encouragement of women's participation in political and social spheres were all significant steps towards improving the status of women. Afghan women, who had been deprived of active participation in society for years, were now eagerly pursuing their dreams. Although these transformations were slow and accompanied by numerous challenges, they reflected the strong determination of both the international community and the people of Afghanistan to create a better future for women. Despite significant progress under the republican regime, the challenges facing Afghan women remained very serious and complex. Widespread insecurity, internal conflicts, pervasive poverty, entrenched gender discrimination, and patriarchal traditions continued to serve as major obstacles to realizing women's rights. Rural and remote areas faced even more dire conditions due to a lack of educational and healthcare facilities. Additionally, traditional views and misconceptions about women's roles in society made it difficult to change these beliefs gradually. Furthermore, inadequate infrastructure, administrative corruption, and a lack of equal job opportunities were among other challenges that Afghan women faced. The Darkness Returns and Steadfast Struggle Unfortunately, with the resurgence of the caretaker government in 2021, all the achievements of the past twenty years regarding women's rights faced serious threats. The leaders of this government imposed severe restrictions on women, prohibiting them from education, work, public presence, and even leaving their homes without a male guardian. These actions not only violated women's basic rights but also inflicted serious harm on the future of the country. Nevertheless, Afghan women did not succumb; they continued their protests and resistance for justice and equality. Women's rights activists, human rights defenders, and international organizations united to amplify the voices of Afghan women to the world and to advocate for improvements in their situation. This struggle continues despite all hardships and dangers, with hope that one day Afghan women will achieve their equal rights in peace and security.

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8 months ago - 340 Visits

Sayed Abdul Wahid Sadat, the deputy of Afghanistan's Saffron Union, states that 85% of saffron processing in the country is carried out by women and girls. The Bakhtar News Agency, which is under the control of the caretaker government, quoted Mr. Sadat as saying that currently between 50,000 to 60,000 women are employed in saffron processing in Herat province. The report indicates that more than 50,000 women are working in the saffron industry of the country. Additionally, the caretaker government had previously announced that following the ban on opium poppy cultivation, saffron cultivation has increased in 26 provinces of Afghanistan. At the same time, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce announced earlier this month that last year, 67 tons of saffron worth 49 million dollars were exported to nine different countries. Previously, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced that at the 2024 Paris exhibition, it successfully secured a large order for the purchase of 600 kilograms of Afghan saffron. According to this agency, the annual sales value of this order amounts to one million seventy thousand dollars. Furthermore, the International Institute of Taste in Belgium announced that Herat saffron ranked first in terms of flavor after laboratory testing.

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9 months ago - 418 Visits

Nila Ebrahimi, a 17-year-old girl from Afghanistan, has won the International Children's Peace Prize awarded by the "Children's Rights" organization for her efforts in advocating for women's and girls' rights. The organization supporting children's rights in the Netherlands announced that Nila has been awarded the 2024 Children's Peace Prize as one of the founders of the platform "Her Story." The announcement stated that Nila Ebrahimi was selected as the winner from among 165 nominees from 48 countries around the world. It further noted that "Her Story" is recognized as a safe space for sharing the stories of girls and women in Afghanistan. The organization emphasized that through the "Her Story" program, Nila highlights the potential, capabilities, and resilience of Afghan girls, both inside and outside Afghanistan. The organization added that she fights for the right to education for all girls and women who have been deprived of education due to the discriminatory bans imposed by the current government. Additionally, the announcement mentioned that before the current government's takeover, Nila recorded her singing to pressure Kabul education officials to lift the ban on schoolgirls singing in public, sharing her recordings on social media. The announcement quoted Mark Doolart, founder and president of the Children's Rights Foundation, stating: "Women and girls across Afghanistan are currently facing unbearable oppression. The ban on education beyond primary school has resulted in an astonishing deprivation of 2.5 million girls in Afghanistan from schooling. Nila's inspiring work in providing a voice that is heard around the world makes her a truly deserving winner of this year's 20th International Children's Peace Prize." Mark Doolart emphasized that Nila Ebrahimi has been recognized for leading a musical protest movement in Afghanistan and inspiring other Afghan girls to demand their rights and fight against injustice through public speeches and international activities. It is worth noting that the International Children's Peace Prize is awarded annually by one of the Nobel Peace Prize winners, and this year it was presented to Nila Ebrahimi by Tawakkol Abdul Salam Khaled Kerman. While Ms. Ebrahimi receives this award, girls above sixth grade have been banned from education. The restrictions imposed by the current government have left millions of schoolgirls without access to education. Additionally, women have been prohibited from going to sports clubs, restaurants, public baths, receiving medical examinations by male doctors, traveling without a male guardian, and working in domestic and international NGOs, as well as even at UN offices in Afghanistan.

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9 months ago - 216 Visits

On the occasion of World Students' Day, the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan has stated that despite challenges, students and teachers in the country continue to strive for knowledge and growth. In a message published on its X account on Monday, November 18, the embassy emphasized that education is a "fundamental right and the key to a brighter and more peaceful future for Afghanistan." The U.S. Embassy for Afghanistan reiterated its commitment to supporting students in the country. It is worth mentioning that November 18 is recognized as World Students' Day in some European and Asian countries. As World Education Day approaches and the annual examinations in schools draw near, some female students are urging that the interim government should not keep schools closed to girls in the new academic year. Additionally, several sixth-grade girls are calling on the international community to pressure the interim government to lift educational restrictions in Afghanistan. More than 1,151 days have passed since schools for girls above the sixth grade have been closed in Afghanistan, leaving millions of Afghan girls without access to education.

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9 months ago - 485 Visits

On the occasion of World Students' Day, the women's protest movement for freedom has once again called for an end to the ban on education for girls and women in Afghanistan. In a statement released on World Students' Day, this movement stated that the caretaker government, by preventing the education and schooling of girls and women, is threatening the future of Afghan children and the security of the region. The women's protest movement for freedom has urged the international community, the United Nations, governments, and human rights organizations to ensure the right to education for all segments of society and to create alternative educational programs for girls while combating extremist educational content. Additionally, the establishment of safe schools within Afghanistan and support for migrant children in neighboring countries were among the other demands of this protest movement. Meanwhile, the Afghan girls' robotics team also released a separate statement on their Facebook account in commemoration of World Students' Day, highlighting the dire situation of girls in Afghanistan. They noted that since the current government came to power, it has been 1,156 days during which schools and universities have been closed to girls. The statement emphasized the urgent need for action to reopen schools, create alternative educational opportunities, and support girls' right to education. Furthermore, UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has published statistics indicating that 2.5 million girls in Afghanistan are deprived of education. This ban not only strips them of learning opportunities but also inflicts serious psychological and social harm. It is worth mentioning that November 17 is recognized as "World Students' Day," aimed at advocating for students' rights and celebrating their achievements worldwide.

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9 months ago - 323 Visits

Iran Human Rights Organization has reported that the government of Iran has executed two Afghan citizens, including a woman, on various charges. In a report published by this organization, it is stated that an Iranian court carried out the death sentences of four individuals, including two Afghan citizens, on Saturday, November 26. The news agency HRANA also reported that the execution took place in the "Qazalhasar" prison in Karaj. These human rights organizations have not disclosed the identity of the Afghan woman or the nature of her crime. However, according to HRANA, the Afghan male citizen named Khalid Tajik had previously been sentenced to death on drug-related charges. Additionally, Iran Human Rights Organization reported that the Islamic Republic has executed at least nine other prisoners, including two Kurdish citizens. Iran is among the countries with the highest rates of executions in the region. Amnesty International has repeatedly called on this country to halt the execution of Iranian citizens and other nationals.

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9 months ago - 382 Visits

Several international organizations, including Islamic Relief and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), have published a joint report stating that women and men are affected in different ways due to their distinct roles in families and communities. With climate change and natural disasters, a significant number of women in Afghanistan have lost their businesses and even their shelters, facing various challenges, especially in rural areas. The report notes that women and men are impacted differently because of their roles within families and society. It further states that Afghan women and girls are at greater risk than men due to low income, lack of access to education, and restrictions on participation in decision-making. These organizations emphasize that traditionally, men in Afghanistan are responsible for agriculture, while women primarily engage in dairy production and the care of livestock. During droughts, livestock may be sold or used for food, which severely threatens women's traditional livelihoods. The joint report indicates that in rural areas, the responsibility of fetching water largely falls on women and children. During water shortages, they are forced to travel long distances to obtain water. Additionally, women and children face multiple threats while displaced, such as a lack of separate shelters, sexual harassment, and limited access to health services. The Ministry of State for Disaster Management has recently announced that a working team has been formed in collaboration with international organizations to assess the potential for drought in the coming year. This office has stated, citing OCHA officials, that $10 million has been allocated for drought management in Afghanistan. This budget will be used for distributing drought-resistant seeds, providing alternative livelihoods for affected people, and sourcing animal feed. The United Nations and other international entities have previously expressed their concerns regarding the negative impacts of climate change in Afghanistan.

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