Lifesaving Services in Jeopardy: Aid Operations Severely Hampered by Restrictions on Women in Afghanistan
Kabul, Afghanistan – September 12, 2025 – Critical humanitarian operations across Afghanistan are facing severe disruptions and the very real threat of collapse following the Taliban’s decision to prohibit women from working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This directive, which has come into effect recently, is having an immediate and devastating impact on the ability of aid agencies to reach vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, who rely on these services for their survival.
The ban has created an untenable situation for many humanitarian organizations operating in the country. A significant portion of essential services, including healthcare, nutrition programs, education, and protection services, are delivered by female staff who are uniquely positioned to engage with and support women and girls in a culturally sensitive manner. Their exclusion from these vital roles has directly led to the suspension or significant scaling back of life-saving assistance.
Reports from the ground indicate that women are now being prevented from accessing clinics, attending training sessions, and participating in outreach programs that are crucial for their well-being and that of their families. This is particularly concerning in sectors like maternal and child health, where female health workers are indispensable for providing care and building trust within communities. Similarly, programs aimed at combating malnutrition in children often require female staff to effectively reach mothers and ensure proper infant feeding practices.
The United Nations, along with numerous international and national aid organizations, has expressed profound concern and urged the de facto authorities to reverse this decision. They emphasize that the ban not only hinders the delivery of essential aid but also undermines decades of progress in women’s empowerment and development. Humanitarian principles, which stress impartiality and the right to humanitarian assistance for all, are being severely challenged by this policy.
Aid agencies are working tirelessly to explore all possible avenues to mitigate the impact of this ban. However, the practicalities of delivering aid without female staff are proving to be an insurmountable obstacle in many contexts. Efforts are underway to advocate for exemptions, particularly for critical health and protection services, but the current uncertainty casts a dark shadow over the future of humanitarian response in Afghanistan.
The international community is once again being called upon to unite in its plea for the Taliban to reconsider this directive. The consequences of continued restrictions on women’s participation in public life, and specifically in humanitarian work, will undoubtedly lead to further suffering for a population already grappling with immense challenges. The ability of humanitarian organizations to operate effectively is intrinsically linked to their capacity to deploy skilled and compassionate staff, regardless of gender, to reach those most in need. The current situation in Afghanistan risks undoing years of dedicated efforts and jeopardizing the lives of millions.
Afghanistan: Lifesaving services cut as Taliban bars women aid workers
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