Gordon Brown Calls for Action Against Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan at The World Forum
Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown delivered a powerful speech at the World Forum on the Future of Democracy, Tech and Humankind, highlighting the severe violations of girl’s and women’s rights in Afghanistan. Describing it as "one of the greatest injustices of our times," Mr. Brown detailed the systematic gender persecution enacted by the Taliban regime since their return to power in August 2021.
In his speech, Mr. Brown emphasised the extreme measures that have been imposed on Afghan women and girls, including bans from education and most public life, mandatory burqa-wearing, and restrictions on movement without a male escort. "No other country in the world bans women and girls from receiving education in this way," he stated, labelling the situation as "gender apartheid."
Despite the severe oppression, Prime Minister Brown noted the resilience of Afghan girls who continue to risk their lives for their right to education and employment. He pointed out that underground schools continue to operate, demonstrating the unyielding spirit of Afghan girls and women in the face of extreme adversity.
The former Prime Minister urged the International Criminal Court to open an investigation into the Taliban's actions, suggesting that these constitute crimes against humanity. He highlighted the broader implications of denying education, noting that it "effectively denies women and girls most other human rights," and violates several human rights treaties to which Afghanistan is a signatory.
He also called for immediate international action to support Afghan girls, proposing four key initiatives:
Expansion of Online and Broadcast Education: Increasing access to education through online, radio, and TV platforms, especially targeting Afghan refugees in neighbouring countries.
Enhanced Resources for Educational NGOs: Urging organisations like UNICEF to intensify their efforts in providing educational opportunities for Afghan girls both inside and outside Afghanistan.
Engagement of Muslim-majority Countries: Forming a high-powered delegation to engage with religious leaders in Kandahar (Afghanistan) to discuss the educational blockade.
Conditional Financial Support: Offering funding to the Taliban government to reintegrate girls into schools and universities, conditioned on the upholding of girls’ rights and freedom from indoctrination.
Prime Minister Brown concluded his speech with a call to action, stressing the global community's role in supporting the cause of Afghan girls and women. "The spirit of the Afghan people will ultimately prevail," he affirmed, emphasising the lasting impact of education on the millions of Afghan girls who have learned to value freedom and independence.
The World Forum on the Future of Democracy, Tech and Humankind continues to address pressing global issues, with Prime Minister Brown's speech marking a significant moment in the discussions of human rights and gender equality.