Taliban Spokesman Sparks Outcry Over Remarks on Girls’ Education
The Taliban’s foreign ministry spokesman has once again drawn criticism after claiming that Afghan women and girls can enter business and earn money without modern education. He said modern education, which has taken hold in Afghanistan, has no historical roots or precedent and is therefore not considered necessary.
The remarks have been met with sharp criticism from social activists, civil society groups and experts, who say they violate women’s fundamental rights and restrict access to education. Critics stress that education is not only a tool for employment, but also the main foundation for intellectual development, better family health and the country’s economic growth.
Some of the critics have also said that justifying the denial of women’s education on the grounds that it lacks historical precedent stems from imported and unrealistic interpretations that run counter to the progress and advancement of Afghan society.
The debate comes as the Taliban administration’s sweeping restrictions on the education of girls and women have put the long-term future of education and social opportunities for millions of women at risk. Opponents of the restrictions insist that the ability to earn money and do business cannot replace women’s fundamental right to education, because education is the foundation of individual independence and social progress.
