Taliban FM Confirms School Closures for Afghan Girls, Citing Global Calls from Muslim and Western Nations to Reopen Institutions

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi acknowledged that closing girls' schools in Afghanistan remains a problem, noting that both Muslim and Western countries have urged the regime to reopen them. He claimed around three million girls still attend primary schools and seminaries, while tens of thousands of women work in healthcare and education. However, the Taliban has not set a date for reopening secondary schools and universities, which remain closed to girls above the sixth grade. Human rights groups and UN experts have condemned these restrictions, stating that over 2.5 million girls are denied education beyond primary level, making Afghanistan the only country with such a ban. The international community insists that improvements in women's rights are essential for engagement, but the Taliban maintains its policies are an internal matter based on Afghan traditions. Critics argue these measures harm the country's long-term development and deepen humanitarian and economic crises. The restrictions also limit women's employment, movement, and access to public spaces, exacerbating challenges for millions of girls without a clear future.

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi acknowledged that closing girls' schools remains a problem, stating Muslim and Western countries urged reopening them. He claimed three million girls attend primary schools while tens of thousands of women work in various sectors. However, secondary schools and universities remain closed to girls above sixth grade. Human rights groups criticized the ban affecting 2.5 million girls. The Taliban calls it temporary but set no date. International community demands women's rights improvements. The regime insists policies reflect Afghan traditions. Critics say restrictions worsen humanitarian and economic challenges.