“Confined within my home, I have maintained faith in the power of the written word”

“My name is Khayria. Prior to 21 August, I was a reporter and served as the Managing Editor for  newspapers within the Information and Culture Department of Bamyan Province.  

Regrettably, at present, like thousands of other women, I find myself in the role of a homemaker, engaged in household responsibilities. This shift has proven to be an emotionally taxing and challenging experience for me. 

The Taliban invasion of Afghanistan has ruined all the efforts of several years. This applies not only to my personal efforts, but also to the collective struggles of many women who have invested a lot of time in education and work. We have collectively lost hope, and the familiarity we once had with the previous Taliban regime has caused me and many others considerable fear and anxiety.  

The absence of employment opportunities, a weak economy and continued domestic confinement in this bleak period have manifested as psychological and mental challenges for me. Yet, despite these adversities, I have clung to hope.  

It is imperative that the gates of education be opened for girls in my homeland. The denial of education and the pursuit of knowledge not only lead to the undermining of a nation but drive it into a dangerous downfall of ignorance.  

I appeal to the people of Afghanistan, especially men, to raise their voices, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with women and actively support them. The collective resilience of our society depends on our ability to stand together for the rights and aspirations of every individual, regardless of gender.”