Afghanistan's Women Plunge into Darkness as Internet Blackout and Taliban Grip Take Toll
Afghanistan's descent into darkness, both literal and metaphorical, is taking a heavy toll on its women. As the country grapples with a total internet blackout and the Taliban's tightening grip, many are losing connections to their heritage, support networks, and even their families.
Saghar, a journalist and fashion designer, is feeling the strain. Her designs, inspired by Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage, are losing their meaning as she becomes increasingly disconnected from her roots. Meanwhile, Daricha, an online training and mentorship initiative for Afghan women, is being strangled by the internet blackout. It's a lifeline that's being cut off, leaving many women isolated and vulnerable.
Masoma, a former employee of the British Council, is another casualty of the chaos. Separated from her family during the evacuation at Kabul airport in August 2021, she remains in hiding in Afghanistan. Her family is now at risk, and updates are few and far between. The digital divide is exacerbating the situation, making it harder for her to reach out for help.
Women's rights activists like Basira Akbarzada and Saina Hamidi are actively opposing the Taliban regime. They've worked with organizations like Medica Mondiale and Medica Afghanistan to support women and girls and build networks between activists. However, the Taliban's systematic stripping of women's rights and visibility is making their work increasingly difficult. The internet shutdown threatens to erase the gains made in resistance, organization, learning, and visibility.
Maryam, an architect who fled Afghanistan to continue her studies abroad, now volunteers with Daricha. But ongoing digital blackouts may make this connection impossible, further isolating the women who rely on it.
The international community is urged to hold the Taliban accountable for these human rights violations. Amnesty Feminist Network calls for recognition of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity. As Afghanistan plunges into darkness, the world must not turn a blind eye to the plight of its women.
