Afghan female athletes appeal to Paris Olympics: “we are banned from sports”

KABUL (Khaama Press): A group of Afghan female athletes has sent a message to the participants of the Paris 2024 Olympics, urging them not to forget the systematic exclusion of Afghan women from sports. They emphasize that global silence regarding the removal of women from education, public life, and sports is unacceptable.

These athletes highlight that the Taliban’s policies have sacrificed the potential and talents of Afghan women, which could have contributed significantly to global achievements.

They describe the Taliban’s treatment of women as “degrading” and argue that ignoring these restrictions represents a “moral failure of the global community.”

In addition, the athletes call upon the international community to take decisive action against the restrictions imposed by the Taliban on Afghan women.

Despite these challenges, six Afghan athletes (three women and three men) will represent Afghanistan at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Additionally, five Afghan athletes are part of the International Olympic Committee’s Refugee Team, bringing the total to eleven Afghan athletes competing this year.

The Taliban has banned women from participating in sports in Afghanistan for nearly three years. As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, the Taliban has declared that they do not recognize Afghan women athletes participating in the games.

The ongoing exclusion of Afghan women from sports highlights a broader issue of gender-based discrimination and human rights violations. The international community’s response to these concerns will be critical in addressing the systemic barriers faced by Afghan women. The presence of Afghan athletes in the Olympics, despite these obstacles, serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and a call for global solidarity.