“My hopes were shattered, and I was forced to accept a marriage that would lead my future into darkness”

Mahnaz

Forced bride and former university student, Farah

“I was engaged, but this engagement was forced upon me after the return of the Taliban. I still vividly remember the day I cried out loud when I got engaged. I felt helpless and found myself in a situation where I had no say in my decisions. My hopes were shattered, and I was forced to accept a marriage that would lead my future into darkness.

I was in my second year of university, studying law and political science, and I aspired to work in the judicial system to protect women’s rights in our country. Unfortunately, my dreams were shattered after the return of the Taliban.

After the return of the Taliban, I left the state university and registered to learn English in a private institute. Unfortunately, that institute was also closed by the Taliban, leaving me with no choice but to comply with my family’s decision to get engaged.

I married a person who opposes girls’ education, and I hardly know him. It was because of his wealth that my family arranged this marriage. I am aware that my future with this marriage appears bleak, but I have no choice but to accept it.

My family, especially my father and brothers, insisted on this marriage. They argued, ‘What else can you do? There are no opportunities for women; all doors to education are closed. We can no longer afford to support your living expenses. It’s better for you to get married and begin your own life.’

I’m not alone in this predicament. Many of my friends have faced similar fates, giving up their hopes and marrying against their will.

For all girls who have been unable to complete their education, marriage is not a choice but a forced reality. I dream of better days at night, but face hopelessness by day.

I have even developed suicidal thoughts. I sought help from a psychologist a couple of times, and he advised me to continue studying and writing. I am trying to spend my time reading and writing about women and the challenging days they face.

Even if the Taliban allows universities to reopen, my family will likely not permit me to attend, and I have lost the motivation to start from scratch. Moreover, it’s unclear what the curriculum will entail under the Taliban regime. Will it emphasize human rights and humanity, or violence and killing?

I hope that the international community will take meaningful action and not merely offer empty slogans. They should stand with Afghan women and provide assistance during this difficult time to prevent further suffering and destruction.”

“Poverty and hardship have forced me to scavenge through the city’s garbage”

An older woman crouches by a rock with her hands clasped.