Taliban bans women from midwifery training, risking lives

Afghanistan is facing a stark decline in women's rights, particularly in education, as the Taliban has recently imposed a ban on female medical education. This decision closes one of the few remaining avenues for women to pursue education since the Taliban regained control in August 2021 and previously restricted education for older girls and women. The closure of medical institutions for females is significant, especially since many women in Afghanistan can only be treated by female medical professionals due to cultural norms. Activists and international organizations have condemned the ban, warning that it will result in devastating health consequences, particularly in maternal health, where qualified female healthcare workers are essential. The United Nations and various human rights advocates have raised alarm over the potential for increased mortality rates among mothers and infants due to the lack of trained professionals. Women's rights advocates are calling for urgent action and support from the global community to ensure that Afghan women are not further marginalized in their society. The Taliban’s edict has raised serious concerns about the sustainability of healthcare services for women and children, threatening both human rights and public health in the process. If the ban continues, it may hinder the availability of female healthcare workers critical for providing necessary medical care, particularly in rural and underserved areas of Afghanistan. The present situation exemplifies the broader context of the Taliban's stringent policies that increasingly restrict women's participation in many aspects of public life, including education, healthcare, and employment.