Taliban Bans NGOs Employing Women, Sparks Global Outcry

The Taliban has ordered the closure of national and international NGOs that employ women in Afghanistan, potentially impacting their operational licenses. The ban extends previous restrictions, with the Taliban citing non-compliance with their dress code and claiming the move ensures public safety. International backlash suggests concerns over humanitarian aid disruptions.

In a controversial decision drawing widespread international criticism, the Taliban has announced that all national and international nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) employing women in Afghanistan will be closed. This announcement was made via a letter shared on X by the Taliban's Ministry of Economy, which threatened that failure to adhere to the directive would result in these NGOs losing their operational licenses in the country, as reported by Al Jazeera.

The Taliban's Ministry of Economy claims responsibility for the registration and supervision of both domestic and foreign organisations. According to the correspondence, women must cease working in NGOs not controlled by the Taliban, with the ministry warning that non-compliance would lead to the revocation of operational licenses.

Since regaining power in August 2021, the Taliban has systematically restricted women's rights, banning girls' education beyond sixth grade and limiting their employment opportunities. The United Nations has denounced these actions, describing them as 'gender apartheid.' Despite international pressure, the Taliban maintains these bans are temporary, emphasizing a commitment to creating a safe environment for girls, yet no resolutions have been forthcoming.

The United Nations Security Council was recently briefed on the rise of female Afghan humanitarian workers being blocked from their duties, highlighting the critical need for continued relief efforts. Senior UN official, Tom Fletcher, highlighted an increasing number of NGOs experiencing interference from the Taliban, despite Taliban claims of not hindering aid operations.

The Taliban insists that nearly 9,000 work permits have been issued to women, asserting that women continue to be part of the Afghan workforce. However, these claims have been met with skepticism amidst reports of increasing restrictions on women's activities. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)