Women's Rights in Afghanistan

Some argue that focusing on women's rights should not be a priority; however, it will be impossible to end the insurgency without improving the role of women in a society which sees “two women…as equal to one man.” (A Woman Among Warlords) At one time, women experienced great freedom in Afghan society, including economically, domestically, and politically. In “Kabul and some other cities, some girls are now able to go to school, and certain jobs are available to women, but this is the situation of a fortunate minority.” (A Woman Among Warlords) However, as a result of decades of war, the role of women in society has been greatly damaged.

First and foremost, the rights of women must be improved in their homes. Laws such as the one passed in 2009 which allows for marital rape and food deprivation, do not show support for the rights of women in marriage. Why would individual husbands and communities show respect for women’s rights when their own government does not? Such legislation is reinforcing the adage that “killing a woman is like killing a bird.” (A Woman Among Warlords) Officials like President Karzai and his wife Zeenat must set a positive example for Afghan society by showing how a husband should treat his wife with proper respect. Zeenat should consider traveling to villages and speaking to communities about the importance of education for young girls as well as against domestic violence and rape.

Since the early 20th century, “women in Afghanistan were encouraged to work in many professions”; therefore, tapping into the talents of those women who already have experience working in business, education, or medicine will establish a foundational workforce that will lead the way for future generations. For those who do not possess such skills, the first step should be ending the perils of “many Afghan girls…who know only work and subservience from a very young age." (A Woman Among Warlords) The role of microfinance could be very beneficial in empowering women who have been found better able to manage money than their male counterparts. Sarah Chayes’ current endeavors as a soap maker are a good example of a project that Afghan women are capable of doing.

Politically, women need to be granted protections in voting and running for office. Though, as Malalai Joya points out, a “person’s ideas and character matter” more than gender, “seeing women in leadership positions can give young girls hope.” (A Woman Among Warlords) Elevating the rights of women in political positions has been beneficial in other post-conflict nations, including in Rwanda where women make up over 50% of the government. The current political structure in Afghanistan leaves out a multitude of potentially successful groups including women.

For more information on this topic, please read "A Woman Among Warlords" written by Malalai Joya, an Afghan woman who refuses to settle for failure in Afghanistan.