Taliban Bans Afghan Women from Studying Healthcare: Impact on Education and Healthcare System

 

Taliban Tightens Restrictions on Women’s Education in Afghanistan, Banning Health-Related Studies

The Taliban have imposed new restrictions on women’s education in Afghanistan, barring them from studying health-related fields such as nursing and midwifery. This directive was verbally communicated to institute directors in Kabul, with instructions for immediate implementation, including final examinations for ongoing courses. Although no official written decree has been issued, compliance is expected, and educational institutions fear repercussions for non-compliance.

This move exacerbates an already dire healthcare crisis in Afghanistan, where female medical professionals play a crucial role, particularly in treating women due to cultural sensitivities. The Taliban's decision is part of a broader effort to systematically exclude women from education and public life, following bans on secondary and higher education since their return to power in 2021.

Devastating Impacts

Healthcare in Peril

Afghanistan relies heavily on female medical workers to provide culturally appropriate healthcare to women and children. This ban will deplete the already limited pipeline of midwives, nurses, and doctors, worsening access to essential medical services. Experts warn that maternal and infant mortality rates—already among the highest globally—are likely to rise further.

Economic and Social Fallout

Restricting half the population from education and employment undermines Afghanistan's human resource potential and long-term economic growth. The exclusion of women from the workforce leaves the country more dependent on international aid, which is already strained by the Taliban’s policies.

Erosion of Rights and Generational Impact

The ban perpetuates gender-based discrimination, depriving Afghan women of opportunities to contribute to public life. Generations of Afghan girls are now at risk of losing access to both basic and professional education, eroding the nation’s intellectual and professional foundations.

The Taliban’s Justifications

The Taliban claim these restrictions are based on their interpretation of Sharia law, which they argue mandates gender segregation and assigns women domestic roles. They also justify these actions by citing cultural traditions that already limit women’s participation outside the home.

International Condemnation

The United Nations and international human rights organizations have condemned these restrictions as gross violations of human rights. UN Women has highlighted that the bans contravene Afghanistan’s obligations under international law to ensure gender equality and the right to education.

UNICEF has warned that excluding women from education and healthcare professions will have devastating social and economic consequences. The Taliban’s policies risk further isolating Afghanistan from the international community, jeopardizing humanitarian aid and development efforts.

Calls for Action

Global organizations, including the United Nations, continue to advocate for the reversal of these policies. They emphasize that inclusive policies are essential for Afghanistan’s social stability and development. However, without substantial internal or external pressure, the situation may persist or worsen, deepening the socio-economic and humanitarian crisis in the country.#