Afghan Sisters Break Barriers, Inspire at Paris Olympics

Afghan cyclists Yulduz and Fariba Hashimi, who faced severe societal restrictions back home, have earned their place at the Paris Olympics. Representing Afghanistan, they aim to highlight the plight of Afghan women under Taliban rule and inspire others by demonstrating that perseverance can overcome formidable challenges.

Afghan cyclists Yulduz and Fariba Hashimi have faced significant challenges to earn their spot at the Paris Olympics. Training on dusty roads where men hurled stones and insults, the sisters now represent a larger cause: the fight for Afghan women's rights.

'I want to represent the 20 million Afghan women who lack the most basic rights,' Yulduz, 24, said from Switzerland. As the first Afghan cyclists, male or female, to compete at the Games, the sisters aim to showcase the strength and resilience of Afghan women under oppressive conditions.

The Paris Olympics come amidst harsh restrictions on Afghan women enforced by the Taliban since their 2021 takeover. Competing in red, green, and black—the colors of Afghanistan's tri-colour flag—the Hashimis stand as a bold testament to gender equality and unyielding courage.

(With inputs from agencies.)