Dr. Ashraf Ghani

Message to Afghan Women on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Keypoints:

Ending Violence: Eliminating all violence against women in society.
Women’s Leadership: Women participate in governance and decision-making.
Education: Prioritizing girls’ learning for future generations.
Social Justice: Protecting women’s rights and promoting equality under law.
Family and Community: Supporting women as family and community pillars.
Religious Respect: Upholding Islamic teachings that honor women.
Collaboration: Engaging government, society, and communities to empower women.
Hope and Empowerment: Inspiring confidence, dignity, and societal contribution.

First and foremost, I offer my greetings and best wishes to all the heroic and courageous women of our land. Throughout our country’s history, in the most difficult social, political, and economic conditions, you have stood with an upright stature to preserve the sanctuary of your families. As angels of peace and salvation, you have fulfilled your duty with pride and honor as supporters of science and knowledge and as compassionate caregivers alongside the men of your society.

Global and Religious Context of Women's Rights

The 25th of November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, is viewed as a turning point in the history of women's lives worldwide. Special attention has been given to it as a working priority for ensuring the rights and high status of women in human society. In the Holy Quran, in Surah An-Nisa, the fifth part, Allah (SWT) says: Translation: Live with women in a good and honorable manner. Likewise, the blessed Hadith states: "I enjoin you to treat women well." The religion of Islam was the first to grant women a specific status, of which the right to ownership is one of the most significant indicators. Elite women, from the dawn of Islam to the present day, have been intellectual and practical leaders of society. Personally, and by virtue of my office, I strive to achieve this goal and seek assistance from all stakeholders in the country.

Condemning Brutality and the Scars of Violence

Although Afghan women have enjoyed a specific traditional status within the family core as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters throughout our history, conversely, many tragedies have also targeted them within this same Afghan society. Unfortunately, the ominous phenomenon of violence against women has depressed and affected the psyche of Afghan society. Brutal acts—such as cutting off hands, slicing noses, and other forms of torture within the family and social life—are unacceptable. They scar our identity and label us as remnants of the early centuries of human life, whereas today’s women are recognized as the life-giving force of human society and hold a special place.

Political Inclusion and the Government of National Unity

I am certain that the broad participation of women in the structure of governance can bring us closer than ever to the ideals of peace, justice, and general prosperity. Surely, one of the duties of the Government of National Unity is not only the elimination of violence against our country’s women but also the preservation of the share of our dear sisters in the structure of the system, which enjoys the broad support of our nation's conscious women. This is a promise: that the women of our country will participate actively alongside men in building their nation, not as a "second generation," but as a flourishing and proud generation.

National Strategy for Elimination of Violence

The elimination of violence against women is embedded in the fundamental programs of the government. We will strive to ensure that the eradication of violence against women by the state and related institutions is implemented and applied through the cooperation of women's rights activists, human rights organizations, judicial and legal bodies, and the National Council. Furthermore, we are determined to pursue the eradication of this ominous phenomenon rapidly, with the support of all elders, religious scholars, civil society, and all strata of society; for any delay in this field will call into question our Afghan culture regarding the provision of legitimate rights, justice, and fairness. Therefore, it is our duty to ensure that the proud women of our land spend their lives with peace of mind in an environment of safety and comfort.

The Generational Power of Literacy

Dear Sisters! You who are the pillars of human society, do not let your children remain illiterate. If you pay attention to your sons, pay even greater attention to your daughters; for the literacy of one generation of women makes five subsequent generations literate, and this guarantees the future of your daughters.

Future Vision and Closing Blessings

Fortunately, the active role of women in the current structure of the system is a harbinger of hope. With the extensive participation of women in the management of infrastructure—be it political, economic, or social—we can achieve significant success in eliminating violence against women in the shortest possible time. It is my hope that this ugly and inauspicious phenomenon is uprooted from our land forever and that families live beside one another with love. For all of you, I pray to the Great Creator for the health, happiness, and great success of you all.