WCRAN’s Statement on the Occasion of International Women’s Day!

March 8, International Women’s Day, is a reminder of the tireless efforts, remarkable achievements, and ongoing struggles of women worldwide in their pursuit of equal rights, freedom, and human dignity. On this day, we celebrate the successes and progress made by women, while also acknowledging the challenges, discrimination, and inequalities that persist in many parts of the world, particularly in Afghanistan.

Over the past three years, Afghanistan’s women have faced unprecedented restrictions and repression under the Taliban’s extremist and misogynistic regime. From the ban on girls’ education in schools and universities to limiting women’s involvement in the workforce and their participation in social, political, and economic activities, these oppressive measures are a clear attempt to erase women from social and political life and establish a gender apartheid regime in the country. Despite these daunting challenges, Afghanistan’s women have shown extraordinary courage and resilience, continuing to fight for their rights both within and outside the country. They have risked everything and made numerous sacrifices but have not allowed the voices of Afghanistan’s women to be silenced, reflecting their strength.

Afghanistan’s women have long been inspiring role models in their society as teachers, doctors, artists, writers, politicians, businesswomen, journalists, and social leaders. They are not only fighting for their freedom but also for a brighter future for generations to come. The world mustn’t remain silent in the face of the apartheid regime imposed by the Taliban on Afghanistan. Supporting Afghanistan’s women is not merely a moral obligation; it is a global responsibility.

The Women and Children Research and Advocacy Network (WCRAN) extends its congratulations to the courageous and resilient women of Afghanistan on International Women’s Day and urges the international community to take decisive action to end gender apartheid in Afghanistan. It is essential to recognize that genuine societal progress and development are impossible without the active and equal participation of women.

We look forward to a future where no woman is deprived of her basic rights because of her gender and where Afghanistan’s women are free, equal, and proud.