رسانه‌ای گوهر شاد, نویسنده در رسانه گوهرشاد

Author: رسانه‌ای گوهر شاد

11 months ago - 487 Visits

Zalmay Khalilzad: The Doha Agreement Had No Connection to Human Rights

Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. Special Representative for Afghan Peace, has recently stated that the Doha Agreement had no connection to human rights and was related to conditions for the safe withdrawal of U.S. troops. Last day (Thursday, October 5), in response to a draft resolution by the U.S. Congress that condemns President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other senior U.S. officials, including himself, regarding the "disastrous withdrawal" from Afghanistan, Khalilzad mentioned that the current Afghan government had agreed to "form a new government for Afghanistan," and that human rights policies would likely be negotiated separately between them and other Afghan citizens. He wrote on his X account that some of these negotiations took place; however, no agreement was reached before the completion of the U.S. troop withdrawal from the country. He rejected part of the draft resolution that stated, "Khalilzad claimed without reason that the current government is fulfilling its commitments and respecting basic human rights." Zalmay Khalilzad stated: "This claim is completely false. I have never made such a statement. I am surprised that such an allegation is made without evidence and is so-called baseless." The former U.S. special envoy for Afghan peace further added: "I have never made a statement regarding the Taliban and their commitments concerning human rights. In my appearances before various congressional committees, whenever I was asked whether I trust the Taliban to fulfill their commitments regarding military issues and terrorism, my answer has always been that we are talking about international relations, an area where no one can be trusted, especially the Taliban." He continued by stating that the agreement was based on conditions as negotiated, not on trust. The fulfillment of U.S. commitments in the agreement was linked to the interim government's commitments, which needed to be continuously evaluated and verified. It is worth noting that the agreement included provisions against attacks on U.S. forces and preventing "terrorist" groups or individuals, including Al-Qaeda, from using Afghan territory to threaten the security of the United States and its allies. Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, presented a draft resolution to Congress condemning former and current senior U.S. officials regarding the "disastrous" withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan.

11 months ago - 389 Visits

European Parliament against Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan; A Hopeful Step for Women's Improvement

Author: Mahdi Mozaffari In response to the recent actions of the interim government of Afghanistan, particularly the controversial "Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice" law, the European Parliament held a special session on Thursday, September 20, to discuss the dire human rights situation, especially concerning women in Afghanistan. This session was convened due to increasing international concerns regarding widespread human rights violations in Afghanistan, particularly the severe restrictions imposed on women. The outcome of this session was the adoption of a resolute resolution, which passed with an overwhelming majority. This resolution was adopted amid rising international pressure on the Afghan government due to its gender-based restrictions and human rights violations. During this session, the European Parliament emphasized that such laws and restrictions are in complete contradiction to international norms and lead to the severe repression of the human rights of Afghan women and girls. The resolution, which was passed with 565 votes in favor, eight against, and 43 abstentions, explicitly condemns the widespread violation of international norms by the current Afghan government. In this resolution, the Afghan government is accused of severely repressing women and girls, ethnic minorities, human rights defenders, and sexual minorities. It clearly indicates that the policies of the current government have not only led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan but have also pushed the country into international isolation. The European Parliament has warned that these widespread repressions and continued narrow-minded policies of the Afghan government could lead to a larger crisis at both regional and global levels. Therefore, this resolution represents a significant shift in international positions against the Afghan government. Gender Apartheid: The Dire Situation of Afghan Women under Interim Rule The tragic status of Afghan women under the interim government has revealed new dimensions of human rights violations. The European Parliament has taken a significant step by describing the current situation of women in Afghanistan as "gender apartheid" and calling for its recognition as a "crime against humanity" in international law. This term accurately refers to the systematic and pervasive nature of gender discrimination in Afghanistan. In fact, the European Parliament, through this resolution, has emphasized that the oppression of women and the severe restrictions imposed on them are not merely human rights violations; they constitute a form of crime against humanity that requires an immediate and comprehensive response from the global community. This characterization by the European Parliament aligns with previous concerns raised by UN experts, including Richard Bennett, who described the treatment of women by the Afghan government as a "crime against humanity." These experts believe that the imposition of severe and systematic restrictions on women in Afghanistan is a clear example of gender apartheid. Currently, Afghan women protesters have repeatedly called for this situation to be recognized as an international crime in their protests against government policies. The continuation of these protests indicates that Afghan women are still fighting for their rights, although the current conditions have significantly diminished hopes for change. At present, gender apartheid is not defined as an independent crime in international law; however, given the critical situation in Afghanistan, efforts are underway to have this concept recognized as an international crime. These efforts are part of amendments to certain provisions of international law, aimed at addressing this horrific crime and supporting the rights of Afghan women. Recognizing gender apartheid as an international crime would be a significant step toward establishing legal mechanisms for prosecuting and punishing those responsible for this crime, potentially leading to international sanctions and practical measures to protect Afghan women. Condemnation of Engagement with Current Afghan Leaders and Calls for New Sanctions In this resolute action, the European Parliament has also condemned the behavior of governments that bolster the current regime in Afghanistan through engagement. This stance is based on human rights principles and international commitments that prohibit any interaction with governments involved in widespread human rights violations. The resolution, which was passed with a strong majority, expresses the deep concern of the European Union regarding the approach of certain countries toward the current government in Afghanistan. Although parliament members did not specifically name countries, evidence suggests that in recent years, in addition to neighboring and regional countries, some members of the European Union have engaged directly or indirectly with Afghan rulers. Such interactions have not only strengthened the legitimacy of the current government but have also facilitated ongoing human rights violations in the country. In addition to condemning engagement with the interim government, the European Parliament has called for increased sanctions against members of this group. The European Union currently has some senior officials of the Afghan government under individual sanctions, but the European Parliament believes these measures are insufficient and that broader sanctions should be imposed on this regime. It is still unclear what areas the new sanctions will cover, but they are expected to impact the government’s economic activities and financial resources. The European Parliament has emphasized that sanctions should be applied in a manner that does not harm ordinary people and that only the leaders of the government should be pressured. Moreover, the European Parliament has stressed the importance of supporting Afghan women and girls. Members of Parliament have called for the active participation of Afghan women in all political, social, and economic spheres of the country and have urged the international community to support the rights of this vulnerable group. The European Parliament has also highlighted the necessity of continuing humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan, requesting that the EU deliver this assistance directly to those in need and prevent it from reaching the government. This approach reflects the European Parliament's particular sensitivity to the situation of the Afghan people and the importance of direct access to humanitarian aid. Thomas Nicholson, the EU Special Representative for Afghanistan, recently announced that the EU has provided €300 million in aid to Afghanistan this year, with these funds reaching the Afghan people and NGOs directly. Such direct assistance has become even more critical in the current crisis, as the current Afghan government uses these aids to consolidate its power. However, the United Nations has warned that Afghanistan continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis and requires further support from the international community. Overall, the resolution by the European Parliament indicates that the EU is concerned about the situation in Afghanistan and human rights violations in the country. By condemning engagement with government leaders and calling for increased sanctions, the EU has sent a clear message to the Afghan government. Additionally, the Parliament's emphasis on supporting Afghan women and girls and continuing humanitarian aid demonstrates that the EU is committed to assisting the people of Afghanistan. Nonetheless, improving the situation in Afghanistan and establishing an inclusive and sustainable government will require greater cooperation from the international community and pressure on the country’s powerful leaders to uphold human rights and international commitments.

11 months ago - 370 Visits

Meryl Streep: A "Cat" in Afghanistan Has More Rights Than a Woman

Meryl Streep, the renowned Hollywood actress, has reacted to the restrictions faced by women and girls, stating that in Afghanistan, a "cat" has more rights than a woman. According to SBS News on Tuesday, September 24, Streep made these remarks during a United Nations meeting, saying, "The situation prevailing in today's Afghan society is alarming for the world." The report noted that she made these statements to draw the attention of world leaders to the issues faced by women in Afghanistan. Streep emphasized that in the current era, Afghan girls are deprived of attending schools and universities. She added, "In Afghanistan, a cat might be able to appear freely in society and feel the sun on its face." The Hollywood actress also mentioned that while a bird might sing in Kabul, a girl cannot raise her voice. This comes as the newly passed law by the current government, which imposes severe restrictions on women, has faced widespread national and international backlash. Recently, António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated that ongoing restrictions against women hinder Afghanistan's progress, and as long as these limitations remain, the country will have no credibility in the international community.

11 months ago - 323 Visits

Antonio Guterres: Without Educating Girls, Afghanistan Will Never Achieve Its Deserved Global Standing

Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called on the interim government of Afghanistan to immediately lift discriminatory restrictions against women and girls and to reopen schools and universities for girls above the sixth grade. Mr. Guterres made these remarks yesterday (Monday, October 2) at a UN side event on Afghan women, stating that women and girls in Afghanistan are facing a profound crisis of discrimination and gender-based oppression. He referred to the current government's law on "Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice," saying that this law has legitimized the systematic exclusion of women and girls from public life. He emphasized, "Women and girls in Afghanistan are largely confined to their homes, without freedom of movement and almost without access to education or work. They are even prohibited from singing or raising their voices in public." The UN Secretary-General added that the law on "Promotion of Virtue" continues a series of edicts that strip the rights and freedoms of Afghan women and girls across the country. He noted that Afghan women suffer from high rates of gender-based violence, so-called honor killings, and increased maternal mortality. Mr. Guterres stated that severe gender discrimination is not only a violation of conventions and human rights laws but also a form of national self-harm that undermines economic self-sufficiency. He said that educating girls is one of the quickest ways to initiate economic development and improve health, well-being, and prosperity in communities. He believes, "Without educated women, without women in jobs, including in leadership roles, and without recognizing the rights and freedoms of half the population, Afghanistan will never achieve its rightful place on the global stage." He added that countries and organizations, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, are strongly calling for respect for the fundamental rights of Afghan girls and women. This comes as the interim government has imposed severe restrictions on women and girls since taking power in Afghanistan. Over the past three years, the majority of Afghan women and girls have been deprived of education and work by the current government. Additionally, the current government has recently enacted regulations under the law on "Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice," continuing its restrictions on the freedoms and rights of Afghan citizens. This law has faced widespread criticism and negative reactions from countries and the United Nations. However, the current government has declared criticism and opposition to its laws as a crime, stating that opponents and critics will be prosecuted.

11 months ago - 374 Visits

Organization for the Support of Journalists: Live Broadcasting of Political Programs in Afghan Media Banned

The Organization for the Support of Journalists in Afghanistan has recently announced that the interim government has prohibited the live broadcasting of political programs in the media. In a statement released last night (Sunday, September 22), the organization stated that the current government has introduced its trusted individuals as experts in analytical and political media programs. The Organization for the Support of Journalists emphasized that this action by the current government once again leads to media censorship and stifles freedom of expression. The organization has called on media and journalist support organizations to take a firm stance against these restrictions imposed by the interim government. Officials from the interim government have not yet commented on this matter. This comes as the current government, after regaining power in Afghanistan, has imposed severe restrictions on domestic media and has consistently arrested and tortured journalists. According to statistics from the Afghanistan Journalists Center, during its first two years in power, the interim government issued 14 restrictive directives against media and journalists. These directives cover a wide range of media-related issues, including forcing female presenters to wear black masks and banning the broadcast of music, as well as referring to the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan.

11 months ago - 372 Visits

14,000 Children in Afghanistan Suffer from Heart Defects

Officials from the Afghan Red Crescent Society report that there are 14,000 children in Afghanistan suffering from heart defects. Abdul Latif Sabit, the operational deputy secretary-general of the Red Crescent, stated that among these, 7,000 children have complex heart conditions that cannot be treated in the country's hospitals. Approximately another 7,000 children with heart defects are receiving treatment at eleven domestic hospitals on a waiting list basis. Mr. Sabit emphasized: "A total of 14,000 children with heart defects have been registered with this ministry, of which 7,000 cases are complex and cannot be treated within the country; they need to be sent to India or Germany." He urged local and international organizations, businessmen, industrialists, and individuals with resources to continue their support for this agency. He said: "Fellow citizens, national traders, companies, and various unions operating in Afghanistan should cooperate with us as much as they can. The more cooperation we receive, the better we can work." Additionally, Matin Hamraz, the spokesperson for the Afghan Red Crescent Society, announced that this organization has taken significant actions in various areas, including collecting beggars nationwide, providing humanitarian and cash assistance to victims of natural and man-made disasters, supporting impoverished families, widows, orphans, and other humanitarian activities. Mr. Hamraz stated: "Across the country, 116,259 beggars have been collected, of which 5,300 families comprising 30,543 individuals have been recognized as deserving assistance. The Afghan Red Crescent Society provides them with monthly cash aid amounting to 53 million 875 thousand 812 Afghanis." According to available information, the Afghan Red Crescent Society was established 94 years ago and recognized by the International Committee of the Red Cross 70 years ago. The organization currently employs 4,605 staff members across Afghanistan.

11 months ago - 487 Visits

Love and Respect; The Forgotten Legacy of the Prophet in Interactions with Women in Afghanistan

Author: Mahdi Mozaffari Congratulations to all Muslims around the world on the blessed birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the messenger of mercy and kindness. The auspicious occasion of his birth provides a valuable opportunity to explore various aspects of his esteemed character and to benefit from his priceless teachings. Among these, examining the remarkable behavior of the Prophet (PBUH) towards women, especially his beloved daughter Fatimah (SA), can serve as a valuable model for all individuals, particularly men. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who epitomized kindness and compassion, displayed utmost love and respect in his relationships with his family, particularly with his daughter Fatimah (SA). As narrated by Aisha (RA), the beloved wife of the Prophet (PBUH), "Whenever Fatimah entered the house, the Prophet would rise to welcome her, kiss her, and greet her with a beaming face." This narration is just a glimpse into the boundless love the Prophet (PBUH) had for his daughter. As a perfect model for humanity, he teaches us that showing love to family, especially women, is both essential and commendable. In addition to this benevolent behavior, there are other historical accounts that illustrate the respectful and kind interactions of the Prophet with people, particularly women. For instance, Abdul Malik ibn Umayr recounts an incident involving a woman named Umm Ala, stating that the Prophet visited her during her illness and said, "Good news to you, O Umm Ala; the sickness of a Muslim expiates their sins, just as fire purifies iron." Such behaviors demonstrate the Prophet's (PBUH) ability to combine assertiveness and strength with kindness and compassion. The Behavioral Model of the Prophet (PBUH) for All Eras The behavioral model of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in his interactions with women and girls is not limited to his time; it continues to inspire all people across generations. Through his kind and respectful demeanor, he demonstrated to the world that Islam holds women and girls in high regard, and this respect is a fundamental principle of ethics and humanity. The Prophet (PBUH) created equal opportunities for girls in various fields, showing that they possess talents and capabilities just like boys, enabling them to play effective and constructive roles in society. This behavioral model not only helped combat erroneous and discriminatory thoughts against women but also strengthened their position and dignity within families and communities. Today, in light of scientific and social advancements, the importance of emulating the conduct of the Prophet (PBUH) in dealing with girls has become increasingly evident. Many of the problems and challenges faced in contemporary societies stem from traditional and discriminatory views toward women. Promoting a culture of respect for women and creating equal opportunities for them is one of the most crucial strategies for building healthy and progressive societies. A Stark Contrast to the Current Situation in Afghanistan Unfortunately, in some societies, including Afghanistan, we witness distressing scenes that starkly contradict not only the proud teachings of Islam but also human conscience. Behaviors that are at odds with the model set by the Prophet (PBUH) and the conduct of his family are prevalent in certain Islamic communities today. The misogynistic attitudes and violent behaviors exhibited by government officials and some fathers towards their daughters are so painful that they evoke memories of the pre-Islamic era. These actions not only undermine the dignity and humanity of women but also seriously damage the foundations of families and society. We see and hear through media about the misogynistic behaviors of those in positions of power towards women and girls. Such actions not only harm the status of women in society but also tarnish the image of Islam itself. Gender Discrimination in Afghanistan More than two years have passed since the establishment of the caretaker government in Afghanistan, and during this time, we have witnessed widespread and increasing violations of girls' rights in the country. These rights are not only inconsistent with international human rights standards but also violate basic human standards. The caretaker government, through discriminatory policies and the disregard for equal rights for girls and boys, has effectively deprived half of the country's population of access to the most basic human rights. According to the current rulers, boys have the right to receive an education, work, and play a role in society, while girls are deprived of many of these rights. This is despite the fact that government decision-makers claim that all their actions are based on Islamic teachings and have the approval of the Prophet. This claim is made even though the history of Islam and its teachings clearly advocate for equal rights for women and men and condemn any form of gender discrimination. Therefore, the imposition of these restrictions on girls is not only inconsistent with Islamic teachings but also represents a blatant distortion of these teachings. This practice has not only led to the violation of the rights of half of the country's population but has also posed serious challenges to the country's future. Comparison of Current Behaviors with the Pre-Islamic Era These discriminatory decisions and behaviors resemble more closely the actions and words of Arab men during the pre-Islamic era than the behavior of the esteemed Prophet of Islam. In that dark time, girls were considered a burden on families, and being buried alive was a tragic fate for them. This sick mentality was rooted in the devaluation and degradation of women. Today, in some societies that claim adherence to Islam, we witness a repetition of these same practices under a new guise. Severe restrictions on education, work, and even personal freedoms for girls in countries like Afghanistan indicate that pre-Islamic thinking still has roots in some minds. These behaviors are not only in conflict with human and Islamic teachings but also constitute a clear crime against human rights. The Necessity of Returning to Authentic Islamic Teachings To improve the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan, it is essential to return to authentic Islamic teachings and the behavioral model of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Instead of personal and subjective interpretations of religion, we should refer to the verses of the Quran and authentic traditions, respecting women and girls and recognizing their equal rights based on these texts. Religious and governmental leaders in Afghanistan bear a significant responsibility in this regard. They must promote correct Islamic teachings and create fair laws to pave the way for gender justice and the flourishing of women's and girls' talents. The behavior of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) towards his beloved daughter Fatimah (SA) serves as an unparalleled model for all humanity, especially men. This model demonstrates that showing love for daughters, respecting them, and providing equal opportunities for their growth and development are moral and human obligations. Unfortunately, in some societies, including Afghanistan, we observe behaviors that starkly contradict Islamic teachings and the behavioral model of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). To improve the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan, it is essential to return to authentic Islamic teachings and the behavioral model of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

11 months ago - 461 Visits

Registration of Afghan Students in Schools of Some Iranian Cities Banned

Iranian media has reported that officials of the Islamic Republic have prohibited the registration of Afghan children in schools in certain cities. Reports indicate that schools in the provinces of Kerman, Shiraz, and Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad are refusing to enroll Afghan children. Mohammad Mahdi Fadakar, the governor of Kerman, announced during a meeting of the province's education council on Saturday, September 24, that the registration of Afghan students without documentation in Kerman's schools is being strictly monitored and prohibited. This official warned school administrators in Kerman that they are not allowed to enroll undocumented refugees. The governor stated that legal action would be taken against school administrators who register "unauthorized" individuals, particularly undocumented Afghan refugees. Meanwhile, some Afghan refugees in Shiraz have reported that their children are not being registered in several schools in the province. An Afghan migrant shared a video on social media showing an elementary school in Shiraz displaying a notice on its door stating, "Registration of foreigners is not conducted at this school." At the same time, the Fars News Agency reported, citing Javad Hashemi, the political and security deputy of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, about the prohibition of registering undocumented foreign students in this province. This information comes as the public prosecutor of Bardasir city in Iran recently banned the sale of subsidized bread to Afghan migrants. In recent months, the Islamic Republic has intensified the expulsion of Afghan nationals, detaining and deporting undocumented Afghan migrants from the country. It is noteworthy that the commander of the Iranian police recently stated that the Islamic Republic plans to expel about two million "unauthorized foreign nationals" from the country by the end of this year.

11 months ago - 515 Visits

Reactions to the Massacre of Residents in Daykundi; "A Crime against Humanity and Continuation of the Genocide of Hazaras"

The shooting of 14 residents of Daykundi province in border areas with Ghor province has faced widespread reactions and condemnations from citizens, political groups, and international organizations. Many citizens, political groups, and international bodies have described this attack as part of the ongoing "targeted attacks" and "genocide" against the Hazara-Shia people in Afghanistan, condemning it and calling for accountability and punishment for those responsible for these events. The Justice and Freedom Party of Afghanistan issued a statement condemning the incident, stating: "What happened today in Daykundi is part of the systematic genocide of Hazaras and is a sign of bitter and painful events to come." Additionally, some protesting women and members of the "Window of Hope Women's Movement" released a statement saying that the Hazaras have been experiencing "genocide" in Afghanistan for over a century. This movement has called on the United Nations and global human rights organizations not to overlook the crimes against the Hazaras. They also urged these organizations to recognize the "genocide of Hazaras" and to prosecute and punish those responsible. Furthermore, the Afghanistan Freedom Front issued a statement indicating that all victims of this attack belong to the Hazara ethnic group, labeling it as "genocide" and a "crime against humanity." This front added that targeted killings and similar incidents had previously been reported from Daykundi and Ghor provinces, noting that in the past three years, "hundreds" of families from these two provinces have been subjected to "forced displacement." The statement read: "Stopping ordinary civilian passenger vehicles and repeatedly shooting at them without any justification is a clear example of war crimes and crimes against humanity." Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai described this attack as a "brutal massacre" and "a terrorist act and crime against humanity and Islam," condemning it. Atta Mohammad Noor, a leader of the Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, also condemned this attack, stating: "This event is part of the targeted killings occurring in areas under the control of the current government, with the primary targets being followers of Shia Islam and the honorable Hazara people." Abdullah Abdullah, former head of the High Council for National Reconciliation in Afghanistan, also referred to this attack as a "merciless massacre" and condemned it. The current government is responsible The Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan has also reacted to this attack by issuing a statement, stating: "The responsibility for this tragedy, which is part of a chain of massacres and systematic killings against Hazaras and Shia people in Afghanistan, lies with the Emirate." It further mentions that on one hand, the interim government is responsible for the security of these areas, and on the other hand, it has increased "anti-Shia" propaganda. Such propaganda has made the Hazara community a target, putting their lives at risk. Mohammad Karim Khalili, the leader of the Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, responded to this attack by saying that the government's claims of providing security are "lies" and "deception." Mr. Khalili stated in a released statement: "While criminal terrorists carry out this massacre against innocent and defenseless people, responsible government officials had recently assured residents of complete security in this area. However, this crime clearly shows that these claims are nothing but lies and deception." He added that "the ruling group and their local and central officials must be held accountable for this massacre and other atrocities that we witness from time to time across the country, where the Hazara and Shia people are systematically targeted due to their ethnicity and religion." Nader Nadiri, former head of the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission and a member of the peace negotiating team with the current government, stated: "The shooting of 14 of our civilians on the road from Ghor to Daykundi is an unforgivable crime and a continuation of the inhumane practices that violent groups have imposed on our people over the past twenty years." At the same time, many citizens of the country view this attack as part of the ongoing "targeted" and "systematic" assaults against Hazaras aimed at their "genocide." Social media users in Afghanistan have reacted to this attack using the hashtag "Stop Hazara Genocide," criticizing the interim government's policies toward Hazaras and Shias. This comes after armed motorcyclists shot 14 residents of Daykundi and injured six others in the area between the village of Qaryodal in the Sangtakht district of Daykundi province and the village of Pahlusang in Ghor province on Thursday afternoon (September 22). These individuals were residents of Qaryodal village who had gone to the border areas of Ghor province to welcome pilgrims returning from Karbala. The Khorasan branch of ISIS claimed responsibility for this attack, stating that 15 Shia individuals were killed and six others were injured. It should be noted that Hazara travelers have previously been stopped and shot at multiple times on the route between Ghor and Daykundi.

11 months ago - 525 Visits

Daughter of the President of Uzbekistan: We Will Continue to Support the Education of Girls in Afghanistan

Saida Mirziyayev, assistant and daughter of the President of Uzbekistan, has reacted to the restrictions on the education of girls in Afghanistan, stating that her country will continue to support the education of girls and women in that country. Speaking at a meeting on the occasion of World Education Protection Day in Qatar, Ms. Mirziyayev said, "This issue is very important for the women of Afghanistan, as there is a significant shortage of skilled medical personnel in the country to protect the health of mothers and children." Saida Mirziyayev told participants at the Doha meeting, "We are ready to continue educating girls and women in Afghanistan in essential fields to help prevent a humanitarian crisis. The government of Qatar and the Education for All Foundation are also ready to assist us in this regard." According to reports from Uzbek media, nearly 700 Afghan citizens, including 200 women, have been trained under an educational program for Afghan citizens in Uzbekistan since 2018. The assistant and daughter of the President of Uzbekistan emphasized that supporting the education of girls will not be easy for any party given the current government's restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan, but Tashkent will exert all its efforts to achieve this goal. Additionally, Ms. Mirziyayev highlighted the importance of online education for girls and women in Afghanistan during this meeting. Since regaining power in Afghanistan, the interim government has barred girls above sixth grade from attending school and subsequently prohibited female students from attending public and private universities as well as private educational institutions. It should be noted that the current government's restrictions have left millions of girls without access to education. The United Nations and the international community have repeatedly called for the lifting of bans on women's rights to education and work in Afghanistan over the past three years, but the interim government has so far ignored these demands. Moreover, women have been banned from going to sports clubs, restaurants, public baths, being examined by male doctors, traveling without a mahram (male guardian), working in domestic and international NGOs, and even in UN offices in Afghanistan. Recently, the current government's new law on promoting virtue and preventing vice has even referred to women's voices as "awrah" (a term used to indicate parts of the body that should be covered). The UN Women’s section has previously stated that the restrictions on women have had a detrimental impact on their lives in Afghanistan.