Challenges Persist for Afghan Women as Employment Opportunities Dwindle Under Taliban Rule

Five years after the Taliban’s return, Afghan women are facing job losses and diminishing work opportunities, resulting in significant changes in their lives.

Afghan Women Face Employment Restrictions Under the Taliban

Since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan, thousands of Afghan women, particularly the primary breadwinners for their families, have lost their jobs. This upheaval has profound repercussions for their lives and those of their families.

Over 60,000 Afghan Women Have Lost Their Jobs

Mrs. Mohammadi, a 40-year-old woman from Herat, shares that after her beauty salon—her sole source of income for her six children—was shut down, she has faced severe economic hardships. In July 2023, the Taliban banned all women’s salons, leading to the closure of around 12,000 establishments.

The Taliban’s Economic Challenges for Afghanistan’s Women Breadwinners

Mrs. Mohammadi emphasizes her attempts to find work in other sectors, but the Taliban’s restrictions have hampered her efforts. She even ventured into saffron trade, yet encountered significant obstacles. According to her, the Taliban have repeatedly thwarted her efforts under various pretexts.

Despair and Loss of Independence Amid Dire Economic Conditions

Afghan women are also speaking out about the psychological impacts of this situation. Many are experiencing feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Mrs. Mohammadi states, “It is extremely difficult to wake up in the morning and have nothing to provide for your children.”

The Taliban’s Restrictions and Their Economic Impact on Afghanistan

The United Nations and human rights organizations have repeatedly urged the Taliban to lift the restrictions placed on women’s employment. The Taliban, however, claim they are working to create an environment conducive to women’s employment, even as these restrictions continue to persist.