On this International Women’s Day, we asked Afghan women: “What do you want the world to know?”
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Afghan women have faced systematic repression—denied education, barred from work, and stripped of personal freedoms. Yet, even amid this relentless oppression, they refuse to be silenced.
Six brave Afghan women share their truths—a testament to their enduring resilience, a call for recognition of their plight, and a beacon of hope for change.
A Plea for Global Solidarity
“On this Women’s International Day, I urge the world to stand with Afghan women and fight for their basic rights. For far too long, they have been deprived of education and work—rights that should never be denied. Please do not turn a blind eye. Speak up, stand with them, and be their voice in a world that too often silences them. Together, we can make a difference.” — Sinah Sadat
Sinah’s words echo the plea of millions of Afghan women who have seen their dreams shattered overnight. The Taliban’s brutal restrictions have erased their presence from universities, offices, and even public spaces. Their crime? Being women who dare to learn, work, and exist freely.
Education: A Right, Not a Privilege
“As an Afghan woman, my message to the world on this International Women’s Day is that empowerment through education and equal opportunities is the key to transforming lives. Every woman deserves the freedom to dream, to learn, and to build a future where her voice is heard and her rights are respected.” — Zarlasht
Education is not just a pathway to knowledge; it is the foundation of freedom. The Taliban’s systematic exclusion of girls and women from schools and universities is an attack on the very essence of progress. But Afghan women refuse to accept this fate. They continue to learn in secret, through online platforms, underground schools, and international scholarships. Their resilience is unbreakable.
Reclaiming Their Voices
“As an Afghan woman, my message on this International Women’s Day is to empower us to reclaim our rise and our voices. We deserve freedom, education, and the opportunity to shape our own futures. Stand with us in solidarity.” — Adila
Afghan women are not asking for pity; they are demanding justice. They are not victims; they are warriors. They continue to defy oppression by speaking out, organizing protests, and refusing to disappear into silence. But they cannot do it alone. The world must listen, amplify their voices, and take action.
Strength Forged in Fire
“To all Afghan women—stay strong. Listen to your heart and chase what truly makes you happy. The obstacles in your path are not barriers; they are the fire that shapes your strength. Remember, you are not weak—you are unstoppable. On this Women’s Day, let the world hear our voices, our courage, our dreams, and our right to rise.” — Dewa Vidar
Dewa’s words remind us that Afghan women are not broken. They are fierce, determined, and relentless in their pursuit of freedom. Their struggle is not just theirs—it is a fight for justice that concerns all of humanity.
The World Cannot Turn Away
“As an Afghan woman, I want the world to hear that we are resilient, strong, and deserving of education, freedom, and equality. Do not forget us. Do not forget to support us. Stand with us in our fight for our rights and dignity.” — Alina
For too long, the world has failed Afghan women. Governments have issued statements, organizations have raised concerns, yet little has changed. Afghan women need more than words; they need action. They need policies that hold oppressors accountable, programs that ensure access to education, and global pressure that demands their rights be restored.
A Simple but Powerful Demand
“As an Afghan girl, my message to the world on this International Women’s Day is simple: do not forget us. We are strong, resilient, and full of hope, but we need your support. Every woman deserves education, freedom, and the right to shape her own future. Stand with us, raise your voice, and help us build a better tomorrow.” —Heela Amanzai
Afghan women are not asking for charity. They are asking for solidarity. They are asking for the world to remember them—not just on International Women’s Day, but every day. Their fight is far from over, and neither should our support be.
A Call to Action
The voices of these Afghan women should ignite a fire in all of us. Their struggle is a reminder that gender equality is not a privilege; it is a right. On this International Women’s Day, let us do more than celebrate. Let us stand with Afghan women, amplify their voices, and demand justice. Because a world that abandons its women is a world that betrays its future.
Listen to Afghan Women Speak: A Call for Justice on International Women’s Day on Spotify
The Afghan Times & IUF Asia/Pacific International Women’s Day special report is now online and available for download. To get a printed copy, please contact us at info@theafghantimes.com.
