As the year progresses, it remains to be seen whether continued pressure from foreign governments and activists will bring about changes in Afghanistan’s policies or if the Islamic Emirate will stand firm in its current governance approach.

The Ministry of Vice and Virtue of Afghanistan has strongly dismissed criticism from the international community regarding its policies on women, arguing that concerns raised under the banner of women’s rights are merely a tool of political pressure against the Islamic Emirate. The response comes after a joint statement by female foreign ministers from 17 countries, including Canada, Australia, and Germany, called for the lifting of restrictions imposed on Afghan women.

Saif-ul-Islam Khyber, spokesperson for the ministry, defended the policies of the Islamic Emirate, stating that Afghanistan is governed by Islamic laws, which ensure just rights for women, children, and all members of society. “Criticism of the laws, activities, and strategies of the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice under the name of women’s human rights reflects the double standards of international norms, using human rights slogans as a tool for political pressure,” Khyber said.

The Ministry of Vice and Virtue responded to the recent UNAMA report on human rights in Afghanistan, stating that the organization continues to base its assessments on non-Afghan and un-Islamic values.

UNAMA’s quarterly report highlighted sections of the ministry’s law, claiming it imposes new restrictions on women. It stated that the law formalises previous decrees and broadens existing limitations while introducing additional ones.

Saif-ul-Islam Khyber criticized the report, noting that it failed to acknowledge the ministry’s efforts in areas such as inheritance rights and the prevention of forced marriages. He argued that UNAMA’s reports, along with those of its affiliates, often misrepresent the ministry’s work and reflect external perspectives rather than the realities on the ground.

The ministry maintains that UNAMA’s assessments do not accurately portray its contributions and remain influenced by foreign values rather than Afghan traditions and Islamic principles.

International Concerns Over Women’s Rights

A day before the ministry’s statement, 17 female foreign ministers issued a joint declaration condemning what they described as systematic human rights abuses in Afghanistan, particularly those affecting women and girls. The statement emphasized that no government can achieve sustainable peace, prosperity, or a viable future without the participation of women.

The foreign ministers stated: “Today, women foreign ministers from around the world convened to discuss and reaffirm their deep concerns about the ongoing and systematic violations and abuses of human rights in Afghanistan by the Taliban de facto authorities, particularly those affecting women and girls.”

Faryal Saidzada, a women’s rights activist, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Both women and men play significant roles in society. Without women’s participation, we cannot achieve goals such as the country’s progress and development.”

The statement further highlighted that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is only achievable if all citizens, including women, are fully included in discussions about the country’s future. “We know that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is only attainable if all Afghans, including women and girls, can fully participate in and contribute to the country’s future. This includes discussions and decisions happening within the country, but also on the international stage,” the statement read.

Fatima Fayzi, another women’s rights activist, stressed the need for female representation in decision-making. “We cannot move forward with only one segment of society; people have different mindsets and demands. We must have women’s representatives in organizations and international conferences,” she said.

Health and Education Concerns

One of the most alarming issues raised in the joint statement was the Islamic Emirate’s recent decision to prohibit girls from attending health centers starting in December 2024. This move comes amid high maternal and child mortality rates in Afghanistan, raising concerns about the future of women’s healthcare in the country.

Since regaining control of Afghanistan in August 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S. and allied forces, the Taliban have introduced sweeping changes to the country’s governing system. Many of these changes, including restrictions on women’s education, employment, and movement, have drawn criticism from international governments and organizations, including the United Nations.

Islamic Emirate Rejects Foreign Intervention

Despite these appeals, the Islamic Emirate remains firm in its policies. Khyber reiterated that the Ministry of Vice and Virtue plays a crucial role in Afghan society and functions in accordance with Islamic law. “The rights of both men and women in Afghanistan are guaranteed under Islamic law,” he asserted, rejecting allegations that the government systematically oppresses women.

The spokesperson also accused foreign countries of interfering in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. “We urge these countries not to interfere in Afghanistan’s domestic matters and to cease negative propaganda that portrays Afghanistan as the most oppressive country for women,” Khyber said.

The Taliban’s return to power marked the end of a two-decade war against the U.S. and its allies, but their governance has been met with significant resistance from the international community. The refusal to disband the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, despite foreign appeals, signals that the Islamic Emirate is unlikely to yield to external pressure regarding its treatment of women.

The debate over women’s rights in Afghanistan remains a highly contentious issue. International governments and activists continue to push for inclusivity and gender equality, while the Islamic Emirate maintains its stance on adhering strictly to Islamic law.

The international community faces the challenge of navigating diplomatic relations with Afghanistan while advocating for human rights. The lack of consensus between the Taliban government and global leaders raises questions about the future of Afghan women and their role in society.

As the year progresses, it remains to be seen whether continued pressure from foreign governments and activists will bring about changes in Afghanistan’s policies or if the Islamic Emirate will stand firm in its current governance approach.