Anna Kelly, Deputy White House Press Secretary, has raised concerns over the worsening situation for Afghan women under Taliban rule. She described the group’s policies as “medieval laws” that severely restrict freedoms. Kelly blamed the crisis on what she called President Joe Biden’s “disastrous withdrawal” from Afghanistan.
Speaking to The Washington Post, Kelly highlighted the impact of the U.S. foreign aid suspension on Afghan women’s education. She stated that Biden’s withdrawal allowed the Taliban to seize control, leading to strict law policies that have devastated educational opportunities.
According to reports, several educational programs for Afghan women have been suspended due to the halt in U.S. aid. Online courses and international scholarship programs, once a lifeline for Afghan women, are now unavailable.
The American University of Afghanistan (AUAF), a key institution for Afghan women’s education, has announced the suspension of its Spring 2025 semester. The university, which once operated in Kabul, now functions from Doha, Qatar. Since 2005, the U.S. had invested $167 million in AUAF. However, the aid suspension has put the futures of nearly 700 students at risk.
Another major setback has affected the Asian University for Women in Bangladesh. This university had provided refuge to many Afghan female students. However, it has now postponed the admission of 330 Afghan women due to funding cuts. Many students who planned to study abroad now face an uncertain future.
The crisis has drawn strong reactions from international organizations and human rights groups. Activists warn that the suspension of aid could have long-term consequences for Afghan women’s education and overall gender equality in the country.
The situation worsened when former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on his first day in office, halting all U.S. foreign aid. This decision has had a significant impact on humanitarian and educational programs worldwide.
Experts also warn of severe economic consequences for Afghanistan. The Center for Global Development, a Washington-based think tank, recently estimated that if U.S. aid remains suspended for a year, Afghanistan’s gross national income could drop by up to seven percent. The lack of financial support could further deepen the crisis affecting Afghan women’s education and other critical sectors.
With education programs shutting down and opportunities disappearing, the future of Afghan women remains uncertain. The ongoing restrictions, coupled with the loss of international support, have left thousands struggling to continue their education.
