Amid the ongoing suppression of Afghan women under Taliban rule, human rights activist and member of the Afghan Women Protesters Association, Sanam Kabiri, has emerged as a powerful voice advocating for women’s rights.
Kabiri, along with fellow activists, organized protests in cities across Afghanistan, including Kabul, Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif, Takhar, Badakhshan, and Kunduz. These demonstrations aimed to draw international attention to the harsh realities Afghan women face, including the loss of access to education and employment.
However, these efforts came at great personal risk. Protesters, including Kabiri, were met with violent crackdowns. “Women have been beaten, imprisoned, and subjected to violence in attempts to silence us,” she said.
Kabiri emphasizes the societal barriers women face in Afghanistan, describing it as a deeply traditional country where pressures to conform discourage dissent. “Many women have been forced to flee their homes and take refuge in neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan, where life remains challenging,” she added.
In August 2022, Kabiri fled Afghanistan after receiving direct threats from the Taliban. The group attempted to detain her and her children, forcing her to escape to a neighboring country under perilous conditions. Now living as a migrant, Kabiri describes her struggles in securing basic rights and resources.
“The conditions for refugees are extremely difficult,” she said. “We need urgent access to safe countries where we can rebuild our lives.”
Kabiri also noted the broader impact of Taliban policies on Afghan women, highlighting how professionals and activists were systematically removed from their positions, leaving many to grapple with severe economic and social hardships in exile.
She called on the international community to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of Afghan women and to address their precarious situation. “If these issues remain unresolved, they will pose a serious threat to Afghan society as a whole,” Kabiri warned.
Kabiri’s story underscores the resilience of Afghan women who continue to fight for their rights despite overwhelming challenges. Her message to the world remains clear: action is needed now to prevent further suffering and to restore hope for Afghan women.
