United Nations, Dec 5 (IANS) – The United Nations has called on the Taliban to reconsider a reported directive that restricts women and girls from attending medical training programs in Afghanistan, warning of the dire consequences for the country’s healthcare system and overall development.
UN Expresses Concern
Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, addressed the issue at a press briefing, highlighting the serious implications of the Taliban's actions:
"We are concerned indeed about a reported directive from the de facto Taliban authorities that is preventing women and girls from attending classes at private medical institutions, " Dujarric said.
Reports indicate that both private and public institutions have been ordered to halt medical courses for women and girls, with several institutions already shutting down.
Impact on Healthcare and Rights
The directive, if enforced, would:
Further restrict women's rights to education and professional training.
Undermine Afghanistan’s healthcare system, reducing the number of female healthcare workers critical to serving women and children, particularly in conservative regions where women prefer female medical professionals.
Hinder Afghanistan's development, as the exclusion of women from key sectors like healthcare limits the country’s progress.
"This directive would have a detrimental impact not only on Afghan women and girls but on the entire population of Afghanistan, " Dujarric warned, urging the Taliban to reconsider.
Continued International Pressure
The UN and other international bodies continue to advocate for the rights of Afghan women and girls, emphasizing that their access to education and healthcare is essential for the country’s stability and prosperity.
This latest restriction adds to a series of measures imposed by the Taliban since their return to power in 2021, severely curtailing women's rights and freedoms across various sectors.