Story perspectives

Over 2.2 Million Afghan Girls Denied Education Amid Taliban's Gender Apartheid

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Afghanistan is the only country where girls are banned from secondary education, impacting over 2.2 million girls four years after the Taliban's takeover.
A UN survey reveals over 90% of Afghans support girls' education, contrasting sharply with Taliban policies.
The restrictions have caused an estimated $1.4 billion in annual economic losses and increased mental health issues among girls.
Families are turning to underground schools and online education, despite recent internet shutdowns.
International calls for action label Taliban policies as gender apartheid and advocate for stricter sanctions.

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Story summary

Afghanistan is the only country where girls are banned from secondary education, impacting over 2.2 million girls four years after the Taliban's takeover.
A UN survey reveals over 90% of Afghans support girls' education, contrasting sharply with Taliban policies.
The restrictions have caused an estimated $1.4 billion in annual economic losses and increased mental health issues among girls.
Families are turning to underground schools and online education, despite recent internet shutdowns.
International calls for action label Taliban policies as gender apartheid and advocate for stricter sanctions.