“If you educate a man, you educate an individual; but if you educate a woman, you educate a society”

“Before 15 August 2021, I was a journalist, and after the overthrow I feel that my homeland has become a place that belongs to strangers. Working in journalism not only brought me a sense of joy but also provided a livelihood. I made every effort to focus on the challenges faced by women, especially widows and vulnerable children, in my reporting. 

I studied journalism and practised this occupation at a professional level. My love and passion for this field have always kept me motivated and even after the fall of the previous government, I wanted to continue my work.  

My recording equipment and camera, which I used for producing reports, now lie in the corner of my small room. It has been several consecutive months that I am no longer able to conduct interviews or take photographs. 

The country’s fall to the Taliban shattered the hopes of many Afghans for a brighter future, and among those most affected were Afghan women. Their activities were deemed criminal and educating girls was forbidden. 

I have tried hard to work in institutions, but because of my journalism background and the fact that they consider me a risk, they don’t hire me, and I feel like I’m trapped in a cage with no way out. 

The biggest change in my life has been the overwhelming feeling of hopelessness that hit me since August. It’s been two years, but unfortunately, there hasn’t been any change in the vulnerable situation of women in our society. Right now, we are facing a slow, gradual decline. Our society is dominated by men, and there isn’t even a single female reporter. During the day, I wonder about our uncertain future, and it’s all quite devastating for me. 

I urge the international community to take action for the Afghan society, particularly for women. Please stand by us – the suffering women. Don’t let us become victims.”