Richard Bennett, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, has recently stated that women and girls have been banned from participating in sports activities across the country for the past five years.
In his latest report, Mr. Bennett noted that Afghan women and girls have a long history of engaging in sports, but their participation has been prohibited since the takeover of the interim government.
He emphasized that many female athletes have been forced to emigrate to continue their professional activities.
The UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan added that these athletes are simultaneously striving to represent Afghanistan in international competitions and gain recognition.
He pointed out that the restrictions against women and girls have impacted various aspects of their lives beyond sports.
While Richard Bennett criticizes the sports restrictions against Afghan girls and women, the interim government has deprived them of education and schooling since taking control of Afghanistan.
This government’s actions have resulted in millions of schoolgirls being unable to access education.
Additionally, women have been banned from going to sports clubs, restaurants, public baths, being examined by male doctors, traveling without a male guardian, and working in domestic and international NGOs, as well as even in UN offices in Afghanistan.
According to reports, if this ban continues, nearly four million girls may be deprived of education by 2030.
