Empowering Afghan Women - the First Step Toward a Better Future
Published: Feb 27, 2025 Reading time: 3 minutes Share: Share an articleWomen are the backbone of families, communities, and nations. When women are educated and empowered, they strengthen the foundation of society and foster peace and prosperity for future generations. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, it is crucial to acknowledge the strength, resilience, and contributions of Afghan women. Despite the challenges, they continue to shape a better future for their country.
Their endeavors begin with advocating for education, livelihoods, and healthcare and striving for equal opportunities and socio-economic and political participation. Afghan women have been at the forefront of challenges to make a positive change, even in difficult circumstances.
Female Humanitarian Workers: Champions of Change and Hope
Saeeda (27), mother of three, has been working with us since 2022. Despite her difficult circumstances, she remains committed to her work in the humanitarian field. "The current situation is not supportive for women, and working is difficult," she says. "But my commitment to making a positive change and being part of something bigger keeps me going. My family has always been supportive because they believe that both women and men play an essential role in a country's development," she continues.
For over four decades, Afghan women have made remarkable progress in various fields, from education and entrepreneurship to food security and humanitarian aid. However, ongoing challenges, including restrictions on education and employment, continue to limit their presence in society. Yet, the resolve of Afghan women remains unwavering, ensuring the well-being of their families and advocating for a more inclusive future.
People in Need’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
We are dedicated to supporting Afghan women through various humanitarian and development programmes. Fatema (33) has spent 16 years working in the humanitarian sector. Despite facing deep-rooted societal beliefs that discouraged women from professional engagement, she has continued.
Through the Community-Based Education (CBE) programme, funded by the European Union, we have provided access to education for out-of-school children – both girls and boys – who would have otherwise missed learning opportunities due to financial challenges or extensive time spent traveling to and from school.
These classes provide children with knowledge and skills while boosting their confidence and giving them hope for a brighter future. "My days are spent meeting teachers, observing classes, and striving to improve the quality of education. Every day is an opportunity to build a better tomorrow," says Fatema.
For women in humanitarian aid, their work is more than just a job; it is both a responsibility and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. "Being a woman in humanitarian aid means I have the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, especially other marginalised women. It allows me to advocate for women's rights and empower communities to overcome challenges. As a woman, I understand the unique needs of women and girls in crises, and that perspective is invaluable in this work," says Fatema.
A Call for Collective Action
On International Women’s Day 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of Afghan women. We call on the international communities, humanitarian organisations, and local stakeholders to stand in solidarity with Afghan women, amplify their voices, and ensure they have access to their rights and basic humanitarian needs. Empowering women is not just a moral obligation, it is essential for building a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive Afghanistan.
