UN Official Calls for End to Discrimination Against Afghan Women Amidst Ongoing Suppression

Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has called for an end to discrimination against Afghan women, emphasizing that the Taliban’s actions hinder the realization of women’s fundamental rights and the progress of society.

Criticism of Taliban’s Treatment of Women

Volker Turk urged the Taliban to halt their discriminatory policies against Afghan women and girls during a session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. He called on the Taliban authorities to revoke decrees and policies that criminalize the presence of women in public life. He stated, “Once again, I urge the ruling officials in Afghanistan to change these misguided policies that challenge the presence of women.”

Ongoing Suppression of Women’s Rights

Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, strict limitations have been imposed on women’s education and employment. Girls have been barred from attending school beyond the sixth grade, and universities have remained inaccessible to them. Additionally, women’s mobility has been severely restricted, and their participation in government institutions has dwindled significantly. In September 2025, the Taliban prohibited Afghan women from working in United Nations offices, leading to the confinement of hundreds of women employed in this sector.

Everyday Challenges for Afghan Women

A 28-year-old woman, who worked for a UN-associated organization for ten years, shared that she has now lost her job and income and is facing family difficulties. She emphasized that many women are heads of households and cannot rely on a male guardian. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also expressed his concern over the continuation of anti-woman policies in Afghanistan, condemning these actions as clear violations of human rights. He has called for the immediate lifting of the ban on women working in UN offices and the assurance of their access to job opportunities.