Every two weeks, a protest is being held outside the UK Parliament in London to draw attention to the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the oppressive Taliban government.

The Women’s Movement of Afghanistan (WMA) believes that Afghan women deserve the right to study mathematics at university, represent their country as diplomats, feel the sun on their faces, go travelling without chaperones, and inspire their daughters to live with ambition. The WMA invites women from across the globe to join us in:

Rejecting the Taliban’s authority in Afghanistan because of its systemic and widespread abuse of Afghan women.

Recognising that women’s experiences in Afghanistan vary according to ethnicity and other characteristics.

Working with governments to establish routes for the resettlement of Afghan women at risk under the Taliban.

Calling for Muslim-majority countries to become a voice for Afghan women

Protesters carry posters bearing slogans such as ‘Food, Work, Freedom’, and ‘Don’t Touch My Clothes’ which is popular among Afghan women who are no longer allowed to wear brightly coloured traditional dress.

Sahar Bakhshi, a legal intern and volunteer with the Afghan charity, Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) which is leading the protests, says, “On 19th November 2022, we held a protest to draw attention to the cause of women in Afghanistan. Full autonomy for women under such a regime is one that may never truly be reached, but we’re protesting for basic human rights for these women, to be able to lead lives of dignity, if not prosperity. The protests must be repeated and built upon if we want to achieve anything – consistency is key and we mustn’t give up.”

Civil servant Rabia Nasimi says, “The protest left me inspired for change, I strongly believe in the power of women! Let’s keep this going and ensure that we lobby key stakeholders to join our collective voice for equality”

One of the organisers, Sadaf Farzan who is a mental health counsellor, says, “This was my first experience of organising a demo. We all stood up for women’s rights in Afghanistan with energy and voice. I hope that the condition of Afghan women will change for the better.”

To find out more about the ACAA visit: acaa.org.uk