<p>The Urgent Need for International Intervention on the Third Anniversary of Girls’ School Closures in Afghanistan As the United Nations General Assembly convenes next week in New York City, global representatives will share updates on their commitments and perspectives on pressing world issues, as well as commit to solutions. Coinciding with this, September 18 marks a grim milestone—the third anniversary of the Taliban’s ban on girls attending secondary schools in Afghanistan, a decision that was made on September 18, 2021. Despite assurances from the Taliban that the measures were temporary, it is now evident that the ban may become permanent fixtures of their rule, underscoring systematic discrimination and abuse.</p>

<p>The closure of schools for over 1.5 million girls in Afghanistan is not merely a national concern but a global crisis, especially given Afghanistan's status as a member of the United Nations. This issue carries profound implications that extend far beyond its borders. The pressing question is whether the plight of Afghanistan will be a central focus at the upcoming UN General Assembly and whether the international community will unite in solidarity with the Afghan people by taking a strong stance against this systemic oppression.</p>

<p>Over the three years, the United Nations General Assembly has fallen short of its obligations under international law in addressing the complex situation in Afghanistan. Despite repeated calls for action, the Assembly has failed to implement meaningful measures to protect human rights, promote peace, and support the Afghan people. This inaction has emboldened the Taliban regime, enabling its continued erosion of fundamental freedoms and discriminatory practices. The United Nations and its member states bear a paramount responsibility to address the crisis in Afghanistan. A decisive and immediate international response is essential to send a clear message to the Taliban regime that their discriminatory policies against women and girls will not be tolerated. Concrete actions must be taken to safeguard the right to education, end the systematic abuse of women, and uphold fundamental human rights.</p>

<p>The choice for member countries is stark: support the hopes of Afghanistan’s 40 million people or tacitly endorse a regime that marginalizes its citizens. This decision will determine whether the international community upholds a principled stance on human rights or aligns itself with those who turn a blind eye to the Taliban’s ongoing violations.</p>

<p>The consequences of inaction are dire—not only for Afghanistan but for global peace and stability. Failure to act decisively will likely exacerbate international crises, including the spread of extremism, increased migration, and multifaceted rights violations.</p>

<p><a href="http://The Urgent Need for International Intervention">http://The Urgent Need for International Intervention</a>We urge the United Nations, its member states, and international organizations to prevent even one more day of darkness under the Taliban’s oppressive regime. It is crucial to stand in solidarity with the Afghan people, ensuring they can live with equal rights and in harmony.</p>

<p>The time to act is now—Afghans cannot aUord to wait another three years, nor can the international community.</p>

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<p>Written</p>

<p>by Deema Hiram Education Champion, Founder and Managing Director of Canadian Equal Education Support Organization</p>

<p>Enayat Nasir Education Champion, Founder of Youth Coordination and Empowerment Network</p>

<p>Rahim Jami Education Champion, Founder and Managing Partner of Education Defenders Network</p>

<p>Zarqa Yaftali Education Champion, Founder of Women and Children Research and Advocacy Network</p>

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