The Taliban, as Afghanistan’s de facto government, claims women’s rights will be upheld under “Islamic jurisprudence.” This stance creates a critical opportunity: to demonstrate how the Quran and Shariah law actually enshrined women’s rights 1,400 years ago – rights that align with international standards like CEDAW.
Since the 1940s, Afghan women have served as teachers, doctors, government workers, and university leaders. By the 1970s, women comprised 15% of the Loya Jirga (grand assembly) and held parliamentary seats, cabinet positions, and administrative roles. In the 1990s, 34% of the formal workforce was female. This history proves women’s participation is both possible and authentically Islamic and Afghan.
Today Afghan women now fight to define their place in post-war society. Central to this struggle is demanding their voices lead debates about their rights, responsibilities, and status – not merely being subjects of decisions imposed upon them. In addition, western advocates must navigate a delicate balance: respecting cultural context while upholding universal human rights.
To reclaim women’s agency, WISE presents a time-tested proven method of promoting and protecting Afghan women’s rights through its publication “30 Rights of Muslim Women” explicitly grounded in the Quran and classical Islamic jurisprudence. The 30 Rights book presents historical evidence that directly refutes Taliban claims, becoming a strategic bridge between theology and justice. The arguments using an Islamic legal framework counter harmful practices born from textual misinterpretation, empowering Afghan women to declare: “Our faith grants us these dignities – your restrictions betray Islam itself.”
The teaching tools will:
- Expose contradictions between Taliban edicts and Islam’s true legacy
- Disputes harmful practices stemming from scriptural misinterpretations
- Equip women with religious literacy to demand rights their faith guarantees
- Creates common ground with Taliban using their proclaimed principles of “Shariah compliance”
Our Strategy:
WISE’s educational resources for women advocates, teachers, grandmothers, boys, and adolescent girls will champion the rights of women and girls. Content and knowledge will be carefully curated to suit different audiences and age groups, aiming to raise awareness and improve literacy through a variety of engaging formats.
These resources will include:
- PowerPoint presentations for male leaders and advocates
- Toolkits and Curriculum for Madrasa teachers
- Picture books and animated videos for girls and boys
- YouTube videos for the general public
