UN demands Taliban reverse bans on Afghan women and girls

The U.N. Security Council has told the Taliban rulers of Afghanistan that peace and prosperity will not be possible until they lift bans on women and girls. These bans prevent them from getting an education, working, and speaking in public. The council condemned ongoing terrorist activity in Afghanistan and called for better efforts to tackle the country's economic and humanitarian crises. The council passed a resolution extending the U.N.’s mission in Afghanistan, known as UNAMA, until March 17, 2026. The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, and no country officially recognizes them as the government due to their treatment of women. Women are limited to education only up to the sixth grade, are barred from many jobs, and must wear full veils in public. U.N. special envoy Roza Otunbayeva stated that it is up to the Taliban to decide if they want to be accepted back into the international community. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that women's rights are a priority based on Islamic law and Afghan traditions. However, some Islamic scholars argue that denying women education and work is not in line with Islamic teachings. Otunbayeva reported that Afghans are increasingly unhappy with Taliban restrictions on their private lives. While some appreciate the lack of conflict and greater stability for men, they are concerned about the ongoing violation of their rights. More than 23 million people in Afghanistan require humanitarian aid due to years of conflict, poverty, and climate issues. Recently, over 200 health facilities closed, impacting 1.8 million people, including many malnourished children. The Security Council also urged the Taliban to enhance anti-terrorism efforts, condemning all terrorist activities within Afghanistan. Tensions have escalated between Afghanistan and Pakistan due to rising attacks from the Pakistani Taliban, which is allied with the Afghan Taliban. Additionally, the Islamic State group poses a threat by carrying out bombings in Afghanistan.