Malala Yousafzai Warns Against Inviting Taliban to Brussels for Talks on Afghan Migrants

Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has warned that inviting the Taliban administration to Brussels for talks on Afghan migrants sends a “dangerous” message to the world. She stated that such an action creates the impression that a regime can oppress women and girls while simultaneously being accepted as a diplomatic partner.

On Monday night, June 15, Yousafzai wrote on her X page that Europe should not seek agreements with a regime considered responsible for one of the world’s most severe human rights crises. She emphasized that political engagement without considering the situation of Afghan women means ignoring the suffering of millions of women and girls.

According to her, the Taliban’s gender apartheid system has deprived women and girls of public life, education in schools and universities, work, and freedom of movement, subjecting them to forced marriages. These restrictions have been broadly enforced throughout the country since the Taliban’s return to power, prompting global reactions.

Yousafzai also stated that last week in Herat, at least 30 women and girls were detained due to their attire, and Taliban forces opened fire on protesters reacting to these arrests. According to her, this incident resulted in the death of a child and injuries to several others.

Meanwhile, the European Union has confirmed that it invited a Taliban delegation to Brussels to discuss the situation of Afghan migrants. This step comes despite repeated calls from human rights organizations for the Taliban to be held accountable for the widespread restrictions imposed on women and girls.