The Kabul Tribune (KT) — UN Women says the risk of violence against women and girls in Afghanistan has surged sharply, as increasing restrictions on their lives and shrinking services leave millions without protection or support.
In a statement released Tuesday, UN Women said the number of Afghan women and girls at heightened risk of violence has grown by 40% over the past two years, with an estimated 14.2 million now needing protection and assistance.
The warning comes as global activities begin for the annual “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” which started on Nov. 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
UN agencies said Afghan women face a wide range of threats — from severe restrictions on their rights and mobility under Taliban rule to daily risks of physical, psychological and economic harm.
“For Afghan women, violence is not only what is seen or heard, but also the silencing of their voices, the doors closed on their futures, and their rights taken away,” said Georgette Gagnon, Officer in Charge of UNAMA and Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan.
Gagnon urged the Taliban to lift restrictions on women and girls, and called on the international community to maintain critical support amid deepening aid cuts.
UN Women and other agencies say severe reductions in funding have forced the closure or downsizing of essential services, including protection programs, mental and primary health care, psychosocial support, safe accommodation, emergency relief and legal counseling. Women-led organizations in Afghanistan have lost around one-fifth of their budgets this year, with many reducing projects as a result.
Susan Ferguson, UN Women’s Special Representative in Afghanistan, said the cuts, combined with intensified pressure and surveillance, are limiting local women’s groups that work “courageously at the grassroots level.”
“These organizations work to reach women and girls most at risk, and we must not abandon them,” she said, urging continued support for women-led efforts across the country.
The global theme of this year’s 16 Days campaign, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” highlights the role of digital access in women’s safety. UN Women noted that a recent 48-hour internet blackout in Afghanistan underscored how essential connectivity has become — both for protection and for economic survival.
In Afghanistan, the local theme of the campaign, “Still Together: Stand with Afghan Women,” emphasizes resilience and the continued commitment of Afghan women despite increasing restrictions.
The United Nations in Afghanistan called for renewed solidarity with Afghan women and girls, increased funding for gender-based violence services, support for women-led organizations, recognition of digital access as a vital protection tool, and community-driven solutions involving men allies and local leaders.
