“The upcoming generation may face illiteracy and dependence on others”

Zarafshan

Women’s rights expert, Ghor

A woman crouches and picks weeds in a garden.

“Before the August 2021 events, I served as a gender adviser for my provincial government. Currently, I continue my activities in the same province. I was the founder of several social, cultural and academic organizations. I established the first women's organization in the province and participated in the Constitution Loya Jirga (Grand Gathering), Emergency Loya Jirga and consultative Jirga.

Because I worked predominantly with women in my field, I became aware of women’s issues. I wanted to work in the field of women’s rights and I participated in various national and international workshops and programmes. I was appointed as the Deputy of the Provincial Peace Committee and later served as the Chair of that committee after the Chairman's passing. When the government changed, I was serving [as gender adviser].

I also lost my husband during the Government of the Republic. My sons were in the military during that government, and as the situation became increasingly uncertain in the months leading up to the collapse, they advised me to stay home due to the deteriorating security and threats from local warlords. Shortly after staying home, the government changed, and I remained at home indefinitely.

When the Taliban first took control of the province, I felt a great sense of unease. They seemed to be everywhere in the city, and no one knew what would happen next. While I had faced numerous threats during the Government of the Republic, I had never accepted defeat and had always persisted in my efforts. Sadly, with recent developments, all the achievements I had worked so hard for over the years slipped away, and it led to a sudden downturn in my life.

I couldn't accept defeat, and despite all the fear and terror, I tried to escape. Thankfully, I succeeded in resuming my activities. My first task after August 2021 was collaborating on a programme to aid 75 families in my province. I faced many challenges, and it was even more challenging than I had anticipated, but it was a good start.

In the past two years, I have successfully implemented two UN Women projects in my province, despite significant limitations and difficulties. We are struggling with many challenges, but if this situation continues, I see a dark and unfortunate future for women. The upcoming generation may face illiteracy and dependence on others.

While security is important and we don't want violence or explosions, women are losing their rights day-by-day, and that is unacceptable for women. For now, I'm living with my children, facing life's challenges, and my economic situation is very dire. Life is a struggle, but we must not lose hope.”

“The Taliban’s anti-female rule in this male-dominated society undoubtedly meant a terrifying life for me”

A veiled older woman sits next to a wall with a flower painted on it.