EU condemns restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan

BRUSSELS — The European Union on October 19 condemned human rights violations and gender-based discrimination by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, according to Ariana News. The bloc made the statement at UNESCO's 225th Executive Board meeting.

The EU called for an end to restrictions on women and girls, particularly the ban on education beyond Grade 6. It called for the unconditional reversal of the policies. According to the statement, Afghanistan remains the only country where girls are barred from public education beyond Grade 6. The restriction affects more than 2.2 million girls, the EU said.

The EU expressed alarm over what it described as the continued deterioration of women's and girls' rights in Afghanistan in 2026. It also said alternative learning opportunities provided by UNESCO cannot replace formal, inclusive and quality education. The EU welcomed UNESCO's efforts in this area.

The statement also reaffirmed EU support for independent Afghan media, civil society organisations and human rights defenders. It said this support covers those who work to protect women's rights, despite the risks and restrictions they face. The EU highlighted UNESCO initiatives on media and information literacy, documentary heritage, freedom of expression and the safety of journalists.

The EU raised concerns about threats to Afghanistan's cultural heritage. It also cited illegal archaeological excavations, the illicit trafficking of cultural goods, and the safety and livelihoods of cultural professionals, particularly women. The EU commended UNESCO's work in the country. It also welcomed the extension of the United Nations Strategic Framework for Afghanistan until 2030.

The EU said it would continue to fund UNESCO activities in Afghanistan. These include programmes on education, cultural preservation, media freedom and the protection of fundamental rights.

The source does not say whether the Islamic Emirate responded to the statement. Ariana News reported that IEA spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has previously said that education for girls above Grade 6 remains under review and that the government is working to resolve the issue. That remark was made earlier and is not a response to the EU statement.

Background

In 2025, the EU and UNESCO launched a €4.7 million partnership. According to Ariana News, the programme aims to promote economic empowerment through community-based skills development and literacy training in Afghanistan.

Ariana News also reported, citing France 24, that European governments are increasing contacts with IEA authorities. These involve deportations of migrants, economic assistance and diplomatic representation. European governments continue to withhold formal recognition of the administration. The report draws on an investigation by Elian Peltier of The New York Times, according to France 24. United Nations experts and human rights organisations have warned about the risks of deportation under IEA rule, the source said. Afghanistan's economic crisis adds to these concerns, according to the same report.