U.S. Must Address Taliban"s Ongoing Misogyny in Afghanistan

The Taliban's government in Afghanistan has enforced a strict gender apartheid, severely restricting the rights of women and girls. During a recent debate, the issue of Afghan women's rights was overlooked, with both political parties focusing on the implications of U.S. withdrawal rather than the plight of those left behind. The Taliban dismisses concerns about women's rights, claiming they will determine these issues based on 'Afghan values.' Activist Mahbouba Seraj criticized both the Trump and Biden administrations for neglecting the voices of Afghan women during negotiations, which ultimately prioritized U.S. security over human rights. The Doha agreement, which facilitated the U.S. exit, failed to mention women, highlighting a significant gap in U.S. policy. While some humanitarian aid has been provided, it has inadvertently bolstered the Taliban's power. Seraj advocates for a different approach, suggesting that increased developmental aid could empower Afghan citizens to challenge the Taliban's oppressive regime. She proposes forming a coalition of Islamic nations to confront the Taliban's interpretation of Shariah, promoting education and employment for women. The Taliban's spokesperson indicated that decisions regarding women's education and employment are still pending, suggesting a potential for change. However, ignoring the situation in Afghanistan poses risks for future U.S. administrations, as the ongoing oppression of women continues to unfold under the Taliban's rule.