Amidst upcoming international cricket competitions, England faces mounting pressure to boycott their match against Afghanistan scheduled for February 26th. Women's rights organizations, including the Women's Rights Network (WRN), are leading the charge, citing the Taliban's egregious human rights violations, particularly against women and girls.
The WRN's public statement not only calls for forfeiting the upcoming match but also urges a complete boycott of all sporting events involving Afghan national teams. They implore UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the England Cricket Team, and individual players to take a moral stance against competing with a nation that systematically denies women fundamental human rights.
The WRN emphasizes the hypocrisy of celebrating team pride while ignoring Afghanistan's human rights record. They highlight the stark contrast between the freedoms enjoyed by women in the UK and the severe restrictions imposed on Afghan women, including limitations on dress, education, employment, and movement.
Since the Taliban regained control in August 2021 following the U.S. withdrawal, Afghanistan has witnessed a drastic decline in women's rights. Under Taliban rule, women are subjected to strict interpretations of Sharia law, requiring male chaperones for public appearances, mandatory full veils, and confinement to their homes except for essential needs. Further restrictions include bans on women's voices being heard in public, attending secondary school, and pursuing higher education.
A recent UN report condemned the Taliban's Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice for fostering an environment of fear and intimidation through its restrictive edicts and enforcement methods. The Taliban, however, has rejected the UN's findings.
