“Each bullet they fired seemed to symbolize the destruction of the dreams and hopes of countless women”

Sahar

Women's rights defender, Samangan

Four veiled women sitting together looking sideways.

“In the days leading up to 15 August 2021, I had a fulfilling job at an international office. In addition to my official duties, I was involved in various community projects and worked tirelessly as a committed advocate for women’s rights and dedicated civil rights activist.

On the day the Taliban took control of Samangan, I was overcome with an overwhelming sense of foreboding, and the echoes of their terrible gunfire echoed in my ears. Each bullet they fired seemed to symbolize the destruction of the dreams and hopes of countless women who were swept away with them.

When the Government of the Republic collapsed, I lost everything. My work, my aspirations, my hopes – everything was swept away. Currently, I work as a childcare worker at a nursery school. Yet, I remain one of the hundreds of unsung but influential figures in the field of women’s rights at provincial and national levels. I also remain a committed member of the Women’s Solidarity Association.

I can never forget those fateful events. On 15 August 2021, Afghan women were once again confined within the walls of their homes, but their resilience has ignited a fire that consumes every living Afghan woman.

I stand firmly against domination, oppression and the relentless submission by a ruling class that harbours both hidden and open hostility towards half of the population – women.

Over the years, I have faced numerous threats, due to my work in media and my involvement in the women’s rights and human rights sectors. Even in these challenging circumstances, my own family did not provide support, compelling me to leave my home province for several months.

The absence of any legal framework to safeguard women’s rights is a grave concern. How can women fight back against a regime that lacks institutional support for women? The dark nightmare of the undermining of women’s rights is common today.

Presently, I am navigating through a disheartening landscape. At times, I contemplate withdrawing from the battle, as, for now, it seems that the existing conditions merely signify the passing of time for women, not truly living.

The exclusion of women from work and education has affected my mental and emotional well-being. Nevertheless, the only way to break free from the clutches of the current conditions lies in women’s unwavering refusal to engage in any appeasement negotiations.

My hope remains that the international community will change the fate of Afghan women. It is the responsibility of the international community not to abandon Afghan women. We, Afghan women, ask the international community to take meaningful and pragmatic steps to support women so that we can reclaim our rights and privileges.”

Despite all the unfairness, oppression, injustice and difficulties I keep going on. I want to be a changemaker.