Inside a secret summit of Afghan women’s rights activists

Afghan women are facing extreme repression under the Taliban, significantly losing their rights since the regime took power three years ago. Many have been banned from school, work, and public life, facing severe punishments for defying strict rules. Recently, new laws mandate that women's voices should not be heard outside their homes, further silencing them. In response, over 100 women activists secretly gathered in Albania to strategize and fight back against this oppression, showing resilience and courage despite the risks involved.

Afghan women are feeling increasingly forgotten as crucial conversations about their rights and future are sidelined. Even though international summits include the Taliban, there are no discussions about women and girls. Activist Fazia Kufi and others are trying to create spaces for Afghan women's voices, despite immense challenges. It is difficult for them to travel due to oppressive laws, and many faced obstacles trying to attend a recent conference in Albania. Their struggle illustrates the urgent need for recognition and support of Afghan women's rights. This makes their efforts even more miraculous, as over 130 women managed to gather and be heard in a politically charged environment that feels hostile to their existence.

Dr. Zahra Harris shares the courageous story of a woman dentist who protested against the Taliban's oppression of women in Afghanistan. After her arrest, she endured severe mistreatment in prison, including torture and psychological trauma. Now in exile, she struggles with her past yet remains committed to advocating for women's rights, believing it is crucial to speak out and support others in similar situations. Her determination shines through despite the fear for her family's safety still residing in Afghanistan, highlighting the ongoing fight against gender-based violence and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. This conference in Albania represents hope and unity for women who are fighting for their rights and freedom.

At a recent conference, Afghan women activists bravely voiced their struggle against gender apartheid under the Taliban. One woman traveled from Afghanistan, risking her life to share her story, feeling hopeless yet determined to raise awareness. She left her children behind and fears for their safety, but believes in continuing the fight for freedom and women's rights. Despite the risks of Taliban surveillance and punishment upon her return, participating in the summit was an act of defiance and hope. Many activists feel that without resistance, the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan will worsen, as oppression continues. Their message to world leaders was clear: they need solidarity and support in their fight for basic rights and freedoms, as they believe in the power of unity among Afghan women against their oppressors.

Women in Afghanistan are facing immense struggles under the Taliban's regime, feeling hopeless about their futures and the future of their daughters. A conference was held where activists demanded international attention on their plight. They aim to declare gender apartheid as a crime against humanity, emphasizing the need for no diplomatic engagement until women's rights are restored. Despite challenges, inspiring stories emerged from women fighting for education and rights through secret schools and organizing efforts. This movement highlights their resilience and determination, showing that even in despair, there is hope for change and a better life for Afghan girls and women. They want the world to hear their voices and take action against the injustices they face.

There is a growing movement among Afghan women striving for their rights and freedoms, even in the face of oppression. Women in exile are creating tech products to gather evidence of gender apartheid, while others support secret beauty parlors in Afghanistan. A recent conference celebrated these efforts, where women sang an anthem calling for basic rights like education and freedom, reaffirming their determination to be heard. The organizers of the conference view it as the beginning of a powerful movement, emphasizing that Afghan women will continue to fight and reclaim their voices despite the Taliban's attempts to silence them. Their resilience and solidarity offer a beacon of hope, showcasing the extraordinary things they are achieving together.