Statement of the Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile On the Occasion of International Women's Day – 8 March

Statement of the Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile On the Occasion of International Women's Day – 8 March

On the occasion of International Women's Day, the Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile and the NEW Women's Empowerment Office reaffirm their commitment to the universal principles of human rights, equality, dignity, and justice. International Women's Day serves as a global reminder of the enduring efforts of women to achieve equal rights, meaningful participation, and freedom from discrimination in every sphere of life.This year's commemoration comes at a time when Afghan women and girls continue to face unprecedented challenges. Since the political developments of recent years, they have experienced extensive restrictions affecting their access to education, employment, freedom of movement, participation in public life, and the full enjoyment of their fundamental human rights. These developments have significantly impacted the lives, opportunities, and well-being of millions of women and girls across Afghanistan. On this important occasion, we express our deepest solidarity with Afghan women and girls, both inside Afghanistan and in exile, who continue to demonstrate remarkable courage, resilience, and determination despite extraordinary challenges. Their unwavering commitment to education, dignity, equality, and peaceful civic engagement remains an inspiration to the international community.We believe that the meaningful participation of women is indispensable to the future of Afghanistan. A society cannot achieve sustainable peace, inclusive development, or lasting stability while half of its population is excluded from education, employment, decision-making, and public life. The protection and promotion of women's rights are not only fundamental human rights obligations but are also essential prerequisites for the country's long-term prosperity and social cohesion.On this International Women's Day, we respectfully call upon the United Nations, international human rights mechanisms, governments, humanitarian organizations, and the broader international community to:Continue supporting the protection and promotion of the fundamental rights and freedoms of Afghan women and girls.Expand access to education, livelihoods, humanitarian assistance, and protection for Afghan women both inside Afghanistan and in countries hosting Afghan refugees.Ensure that Afghan women are meaningfully included in all international discussions, initiatives, and decision-making processes concerning the future of Afghanistan.Strengthen international efforts to uphold accountability for serious human rights violations affecting women and girls and to support initiatives that advance gender equality, justice, and human dignity.Today, we once again amplify the voices of Afghan women, whose resilience continues to inspire hope despite immense adversity. Their peaceful pursuit of education, equality, freedom, and justice reflects universal values that deserve the continued support and solidarity of the international community.International Women's Day reminds us that the advancement of women's rights is a shared global responsibility. The voices of Afghan women must continue to be heard, respected, and supported until every woman and girl can enjoy her rights, live in safety and dignity, and participate fully and equally in shaping the future of her country.

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