Afghanistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Criticizes Ban on Girls’ Education
Cairo: Hani Kamal El-Din
In a bold and unprecedented move, Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, Afghanistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, has openly criticized the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education, calling it a grave injustice and a violation of Islamic principles. Speaking at a graduation ceremony at a madrasa in Khost province, Stanikzai emphasized that the ban contradicts the teachings of Sharia and deprives millions of Afghan girls of their fundamental rights.
A Stark Condemnation: Education as a Basic Right
Stanikzai did not mince words as he addressed the audience, which included religious scholars and local leaders. “Out of a population of 40 million, we are committing an injustice against 20 million people,” he stated. “Will we not be held accountable for this on the Day of Judgment? We have stripped them of their basic rights—no inheritance, no say in marriage, no access to education, no permission to attend mosques, and no opportunity to pursue higher education. Even religious schools are closed to them.”
His remarks come amid growing international and domestic pressure to reverse the Taliban’s decision to bar girls above the sixth grade from attending school. The ban, which has been in place for three years, has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and the global community.
A Call to Reopen Schools: No Justification for the Ban
Stanikzai urged the Taliban leadership to reconsider the ban, stressing that there is no religious or logical justification for denying girls access to education. “We call on the leaders of the Islamic Emirate to reopen the doors of education for girls,” he said. “There is no acceptable excuse for this decision, and there never will be. During the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the doors of knowledge were open to both men and women.”
His appeal reflects a growing sentiment among some Taliban officials who recognize the importance of education for the country’s future. However, the hardline stance of the Taliban’s top leadership has so far prevented any significant changes to the policy.
Modern Education and National Unity: Key to Afghanistan’s Future
The event also featured speeches from other high-ranking officials, including Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, and Abdul Latif Mansour, the Acting Minister of Energy and Water. Both emphasized the importance of modern education alongside religious studies, as well as the need for national unity.
Baradar highlighted the role of technology and modern education in shaping Afghanistan’s future. “We are living in an era of technology,” he said. “It is essential to embrace modern education and the demands of the present time to truly serve our religion and nation.”
Mansour echoed these sentiments, calling for unity among Afghanistan’s diverse ethnic and social groups. “Dear elders, maintain your unity,” he urged. “Our success lies in solidarity and cohesion. The unity of our ethnic groups, social classes, and religious scholars is the key to our progress.”
The Broader Context: A Nation at a Crossroads
The Taliban’s ban on girls’ education has been one of the most controversial aspects of their rule since returning to power in 2021. While the group has sought international recognition and economic support, its restrictive policies, particularly regarding women’s rights, have drawn sharp criticism and hindered efforts to rebuild the country’s economy and infrastructure.
The ban has also had a devastating impact on Afghan society, with millions of girls being denied the opportunity to learn and contribute to their communities. Many fear that the long-term consequences of this policy will further isolate Afghanistan and deepen its economic and social crises.
A Glimmer of Hope?
Stanikzai’s remarks, along with the statements from other officials, suggest that there may be growing internal pressure to address the issue of girls’ education. However, it remains to be seen whether the Taliban’s leadership will heed these calls and take concrete steps to reverse the ban.
For now, the future of millions of Afghan girls hangs in the balance, as the country grapples with the challenges of governance, development, and international relations. The question remains: Will the Taliban prioritize the well-being of its citizens and the future of Afghanistan, or will it continue down a path that undermines the rights of half its population?
