Peace mediators must come up with a pact for the betterment of women in Afghanistan
GUJRAT: The Afghan peace process without women will be an incomplete one. The Taliban need to have a position on women of the country. The withdrawal of American troops would have consequences beyond the political structure of the country.
The situation of women was dismal during the time the Taliban were in control of Afghanistan, especially in terms of health, education, employment, freedom from violence, equality before the law and political participation.
According to the Afghan Women’s Network, cases of violence against women show that strong patriarchal structures spur the prevalence of misogyny, which often leads to violence.
Owing to 40 years of war in Afghanistan, cultural practices have more power than the law, so it is necessary that this time the Afghan issue should be dealt with honestly, and with due consideration of social issues as well.
Before the complete US withdrawal from Afghanistan, one thing should be ensured that the Taliban will have to accept the country’s constitution. Secondly, peace mediators must come up with a pact for the betterment of women in Afghanistan.
Sharif Nuhaaq Baloch
Published in The Express Tribune, February 1st, 2019.
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