“I decided to stand up because I had to choose between life and death”

“I felt that I was getting closer to my goal with each passing day, but unfortunately, I could not reach it. I was a medical student and worked in a hospital in Jawzjan concurrently. I never thought that the Taliban would take power again.

During the previous Taliban regime, we had migrated to Iran, after we kept hearing stories about the oppression and domination that those in power were imposing on our people. Unfortunately, history repeated itself, and like our parents, we too had to walk the same path and experience the same bitterness that they had endured. 

I was on my way back from the hospital when the news of the city’s fall spread everywhere. People were worried, and the whole city was gripped by fear. Empty streets, stories of my parents now our reality. Finally, I reached home, and no matter where I looked, I found fear and despair. No one could imagine what would happen in the next few moments. I embraced my mother and cried out of fear for an uncertain fate and unfulfilled dreams. 

No one had the courage to leave their homes, and with each passing day, the restrictions became more severe. Schools were closed, and girls were no longer allowed to go to universities. Government jobs for women were limited, and I lost my job. 

Eventually, I managed to start working as an inspector and controller in health-related projects for a foreign organization. 

One day, I was sent by the organization I worked for to Faryab Province to supervise some health projects. When I arrived, due to the absence of a guardian, I was insulted and humiliated by many in the area to the point that the local governor intended to detain me. Fortunately, I managed to escape with the help of a friend. I always tremble at the thought that such an incident might happen again, and fear haunts me, [even though I am no longer able to work]. 

Afghan women endure difficult conditions both mentally and spiritually. Women are half of this society, and today they experience pain that not only affects them but the whole society. 

The international community should recognize this as a political issue and not be indifferent to it, preventing the Taliban from using women as weapons to achieve their goals. We are not weapons. We are human beings with feelings and desires. We want to live. Please don’t take away our right to live.”