UN Women Condemns New Afghan Morality Law for Deepening Gender Inequality and Restricting Women’s Rights

WASHINGTON:
UN Women has expressed grave concern over the recent enactment of a “Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice” by the de facto authorities in Afghanistan, which imposes severe restrictions on personal behavior and significantly exacerbates the marginalization of women and girls in the country.

Announced on 21 August 2024, the new law enforces stringent controls over Afghan society, further limiting the rights and freedoms of women and girls. The law mandates that women cover their entire bodies and faces, prohibits them from interacting with non-Muslims, and restricts their use of public transport and interaction with men outside their immediate family. Women are also banned from having their voices heard in public settings.

This latest development follows a series of over 70 edicts, directives, and decrees imposed by the de facto authorities since their takeover of Afghanistan three years ago. UN Women’s data highlights the severe impact of these restrictions on Afghan women and girls. Key findings include:

Only 1% of women feel they have influence over community decision-making.
64% of women report feeling unsafe leaving their homes alone, in stark contrast to just 2% of men.
8% of women know someone who has attempted suicide since August 2021.
The oppressive nature of these laws has led to a dire humanitarian situation, with increasing reports of mental health crises among women and girls.

UN Women is calling for the immediate reversal of these restrictive measures and urging the de facto authorities to comply with international law to ensure the full and equal rights of women and girls. The organization reaffirms its commitment to supporting Afghan women and girls and will continue collaborating with partners to uphold their rights and dignity.

UN Women’s solidarity with Afghan women remains unwavering as it continues to advocate for the restoration of their fundamental freedoms and rights.