White House Condemns Taliban’s Restrictions on Afghan Women’s Education
The White House has strongly condemned the Taliban’s treatment of Afghan women, calling their policies “medieval laws.” Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly linked the worsening situation to the “disastrous withdrawal” of U.S. forces from Afghanistan under President Joe Biden’s administration.
The minister emphasized that the Taliban’s restrictive policies, combined with the suspension of U.S. foreign aid, have severely impacted Afghan women’s access to education. She stated that the withdrawal enabled the Taliban to seize control and enforce oppressive laws, rolling back years of progress in women’s rights.
The suspension of U.S. funding has led to the cancellation of key educational programs for Afghan women. The American University of Afghanistan (AUAF), which previously received $167 million in U.S. aid, has halted its Spring 2025 semester, affecting around 700 students. Likewise, the Asian University for Women in Bangladesh has postponed the admission of 330 Afghan female students due to financial constraints.
Human rights organizations have expressed deep concern over these developments, warning of long-term consequences for Afghan women and the country’s future. Experts also highlight the economic impact of continued aid suspension.
A report by the Center for Global Development estimates Afghanistan’s gross national income could decline by up to 7% if foreign assistance remains frozen.
As the situation worsens, calls for international intervention and renewed support for Afghan women continue to grow.
