UNICEF: 2.2 Million Girls Deprived of Education in Afghanistan as the New Academic Year Begins

Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s Executive Director, emphasized in a statement on Saturday (22 March) that the continuation of this ban harms the future of millions of Afghan girls. According to her, if this restriction continues until 2030, more than 4 million girls will be deprived of education beyond the elementary level.

UNICEF’s Executive Director described the consequences of this ban as “catastrophic” and stated that this decision negatively affects the health system, economy, and future of Afghanistan.

Russell specified: “Given that fewer girls are receiving education, girls face a higher risk of child marriage, which will have negative repercussions on their welfare and health. Additionally, the country will face a shortage of qualified female health workers, which will put lives at risk.”

She added that the shortage of female doctors will result in women and girls being unable to receive the necessary medical care and support.

Catherine Russell stated: “We estimate 1,600 maternal deaths and over 3,500 neonatal deaths. These are not just numbers, but represent lost lives and shattered families.”

She continued by emphasizing that “for over three years, the rights of girls in Afghanistan have been violated. Now all girls must be allowed to return to school. If these young, capable, and intelligent girls continue to be deprived of education, the consequences will extend for generations. Afghanistan cannot leave half of its population behind.”

Referring to UNICEF’s efforts to support Afghan children, she noted that despite the existing restrictions, the organization has been able to provide access to education for 445,000 children through community-based education programs, 64 percent of whom are girls.

UNICEF’s Executive Director called on the Taliban to lift the ban on girls’ education, stressing: “Education is not only a fundamental right, but also the pathway to a healthier, more stable, and more prosperous society.”

This comes as the Taliban declared the start of the new academic year on Thursday. However, for the fourth consecutive year, middle and high schools remain closed to girls. Since taking power in August 2021, the Taliban have deprived girls above the sixth grade and women of their right to education in schools and universities.