Summary
Afghan women currently face severe restrictions under Taliban rule. The George W. Bush Institute is launching a coalition to support Afghan women and pressure the Taliban. The Taliban severely limits women's rights, but Afghan women continue to resist.
Key Facts
- Afghan women are not allowed to work, go to school, or move freely under Taliban rule.
- The Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021.
- The George W. Bush Institute is launching the U.S.-Afghan Women’s Coalition to support Afghan women.
- The coalition builds on the work of the U.S.-Afghan Women’s Council, which has been active for nearly 25 years.
- Afghan women previously set up underground schools and businesses to resist Taliban restrictions.
- By 2021, Afghan women held significant roles, making up a quarter of the workforce and 27% of legislative seats.
- Afghan women's gains included lower maternal and infant mortality rates and increased student enrollment.
- The Taliban targets Afghan women because they oppose its extremist goals.
